Ryder Barnes, a 17-year-old high school football star, has tragically passed away at the age of 17. His death has been reported as 'sudden.' Ryder was just months away from starting a collegiate football career at California Polytechnic State University.
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Cal Poly released a statement upon learning of Ryder's passing.
"The Cal Poly football program mourns the passing of signee Ryder Barnes," the statement reads. "...On behalf of our entire Cal Poly football family, we are deeply saddened by the passing of Ryder Barnes. Ryder was an exceptional young man with a bright future, and this loss is felt by all of us. Our thoughts, prayers, and heartfelt condolences are with his family, friends, and all who loved him during this incredibly difficult time."
One of Ryder's former coaches, former NFL talent David Benefield, also shared a brief statement on Ryder's passing.
"Beyond devastated, stunned into numbness," Benefield wrote, via PEOPLE. "I'm going to miss you kid, the quizzical looks before drills, the good natured personality. The down to earth goodness. Cal Poly missed a great one. You will not be forgotten."
Ryder Barnes' High School Has Released a Heartfelt Statement
Ryder was a star football athlete at Crean Lutheran High School in California. His school has also released a statement to their Instagram account, following his tragic death.
"There are no words big enough to capture the loss we feel. Today we honor an exceptional young man. One who showed up with heart, led with strength, and left an impact far beyond the field," the statement reads. "Ryder was well known in our community as an amazing teammate and friend. As a member of our football program, he distinguished himself as a defensive end, earning Epsilon League Defensive Player of the Year, All Orange County, and Defensive MVP Honors. Yet those accomplishments represent only a small piece of his story."
The statement then continues by sharing love and support with Ryder's family, especially his grandparents, who raised him.
"Ryder was raised by his Grandparents, helped raise his younger sister, and was dearly loved by his older brother and sister. We are keeping his family and all who loved him in our thoughts and prayers during this incredibly difficult time."
As of now, no details regarding Ryder's impending funeral have been released. Furthermore, those details will undoubtedly remain private, reserved for family and loved ones. Nevertheless, our thoughts are with Ryder's family during this difficult time. RIP.
