A Furman football player died two days after suffering a medical emergency at a workout.
Bryce Stanfield, a defensive end and tackle, collapsed during a practice at Paladin Stadium in Greenville, South Carolina, and after going on life support at a local hospital, he passed away.
He was 21 years old.
“We are heartbroken beyond measure with Bryce’s sudden passing and ask that everyone, first and foremost, lift up his parents, Fred and Teri Stanfield, and their family, in prayer on this day and in the days ahead,” Furman head coach Clary Hendrix said in a statement.
“There are so many more who are really hurting — namely Bryce’s teammates, coaches and staff, classmates, friends, and the entire Furman community and beyond. Bryce was an outstanding young man and an equally fine student, football player, and friend. He was so much a part of who we are as a program and school, and was pivotal in our success on the football field and through giving of his time in outreach to our community.
“In every sense, he was the best representative we could have. His passing is one of the most difficult things Furman football has ever encountered, but our faith and so many wonderful memories Bryce provided us will help sustain us all in the days ahead.”
According to Fox Carolina, Stanfield had dealt with a back issue that limited what he could do before the workouts started, but he was going through rehab for that, and the coaching staff was not aware of any other medical issues he had.
Furman president Elizabeth Davis released a statement sending condolences to Stanfield’s family.
“The university extends its heartfelt condolences to Bryce’s family and friends in this time of profound loss,” Davis said. “The entire Furman community is deeply affected at times like these, and it’s important that we offer each other support and seek help if we need it.”
In 2021, Stanfield was named to the Southern Conference’s All-Freshman Team after recording 19 tackles and three sacks.
In his third season in 2023, he suited up in 13 games and recorded 13 tackles and 2 1/2 sacks as the Paladins won the Southern Conference.
He was a Southern Conference Academic Honor Roll member the last two years.
The school plans to announce memorial service plans at a later date.
Davis added that his strong academics and community outreach made him a valuable member of the Furman community.
“Bryce excelled in the classroom and had aspirations for dental school after Furman,” she wrote. “He equally shined on the football field and was beloved by his teammates and coaches. He loved engaging local youth by serving in Heller’s Men of Distinction, as well as reading to children in local schools.
“His Bachelor of Science degree, magna cum laude, was conferred this morning in a small private ceremony.”