Midwestern State Sophomore Football Player Dies After Making Tackle

Robert Grays, a sophomore cornerback at Midwestern State, died Tuesday from injuries sustained during a game Saturday. He was 19.

Reports say, Grays died after being injured while making a tackle with about 3½ minutes to go in the Mustangs’ 35-13 win over Texas A&M-Kingsville in Wichita Falls, Texas.

According to ESPN, Midwestern State athletics department spokesman Trey Reed said Grays was hospitalized in Wichita Falls on Saturday night after the sustaining the injury and was then flown to a hospital in Houston, where he died Tuesday.

Midwestern State president Suzanne Shipley released a statement regarding Grays’ unfortunate passing:

“Today we mourn the loss of one of our own. Robert Grays died yesterday from critical injuries suffered in Saturday’s game. I know you will join me in expressing the sincerest condolences of the MSU community to Robert’s family and friends. Please keep them in your thoughts in the coming days. source

Robert touched many lives while attending the university, but perhaps he will be remembered best for his smile. He was an inspiration on and off the field to those around him, and he will be remembered with love and affection by his friends, classmates, coaches, and teammates.”

About 700 people gathered Monday at Midwestern State in support of Grays.

Our thoughts and prayers go out to the family and friends at this difficult time.