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A 15-year-old high school football player in East Texas has passed away after collapsing on the sidelines during a game in late September.
The Corrigan-Camden Independent School District posted a 'heartbreaking' announcement last Saturday confirming the death of student Daniel Rivera.
Rivera was standing on the sidelines during a game on Friday, September 26 when he collapsed 'due to a medical emergency unrelated to the game'.
“He was there supporting his team during the game at the time and was promptly cared for by several individuals,” the school said.
The school also said that they couldn't reveal specifics of the 'health-related details' surrounding the 15-year-old's medical incident.
On the morning after the health scare, the school revealed Rivera was in 'critical condition and needs your prayers' after being flown to Texas Children's Hospital in Houston.
An East Texas high school is mourning the death of football player Daniel Rivera, who collapsed on the sideline of a game in September and passed away after spending a week in the hospital
Rivera is being remembered for 'his energy, kindness and determination' by the school
Local CBS affiliate KYTX reported the teenager had undergone emergency surgery after the collapse.
Over the following week and a half, the school district raised money to help Rivera's family with medical costs and the school wore blue 'to show love and support' for him.
But his death was confirmed in a heartbreaking post from the school district on Saturday afternoon: 'It is with a heavy heart that we share the heartbreaking news of the passing of our student and athlete, Daniel Rivera.
'Daniel was not only a dedicated student but also a passionate athlete, a loyal friend, and a cherished member of our Bulldog Family. His energy, kindness and determination left a lasting impact on all who knew him.
'We extend our deepest condolences to Daniel's family, friends and teammates, who are all grieving this profound loss. During this incredibly difficult time, we encourage everyone to support one another and honor Daniel's memory through unity, compassion, and strength. Daniel will forever remain in our hearts.'
Brett Ratliff, the school's athletic director, told the Polk County Enterprise that Rivera was a 'hard-working, blue-collar kid. He is an amazing kid with an amazing family.'
Ratliff also addressed Rivera's death in a Facebook video: 'The more I reflect and the more I think of of this simple quote that we learned. The quote's this simple: "Tough times don't last, but tough people do." So if we can cling to that and we use that as our mantra, I promise we'll make it through this together.'
