Brain Injury In Game Kills High School Football Player

UPDATE: HS Football Player's Funeral: Guests Told To Wear Jerseys

ZEBULON, GA — A fundraising effort is underway for the Georgia high school football player who died from a severe brain injury in a game Friday night. Pike County High School student Dylan Thomas was injured during a game Friday night and taken to a hospital in critical condition with a brain injury.

News reports say that Thomas was hurt in the second quarter of the game and later collapsed on the sideline after his arm and leg went numb. Pike County High School held a vigil Sunday afternoon and reported the teen died later that day.

"We lost Dylan tonight shortly after the candlelight vigil," Thomas' uncle, Nick Burgess wrote on his Facebook page. "I never admired a young man more than this one I called 'Nephew' Hold your loved ones a little longer, make that visit, make that phone call and always tell them you love them. We love you Dylan Michael Thomas."

Burgess started a fundraiser to cover the medical costs. Burgess had raised $32,589 raised of $30,000 goal by Monday afternoon. His uncle called Thomas a kind-hearted teen and an "all-around wonderful kid."

"Words can never explain the way I am feeling. The one that was the golden child in the family and really brought the family together," Burgess wrote on Facebook Monday. "The one that had the biggest heart. The one that told me personally he was always scared to seriously hurt somebody on the field and never thought it would happen to him.

"I'll always remember taking naps with him in my arms while his mom and dad worked. The times we fish till we couldn't no more. My lil young topgun21. I love you and will never forget you, no Christmas or Thanksgiving will ever be the same because he was the one why the family even got together."

The Pike County High School Principal Michael Duncan put out a statement Monday morning.

"I am saddened to inform you that Dylan Thomas, a Pike County High School Student, passed away last evening as a result of injuries sustained in the football game on Friday night. Dylan was an active participant in our school community and a member of the Class of 2020. Please remember his family in the days ahead. Our school counselors have been and will continue to be available to provide assistance and support to students as they express their sorrow in the loss of their classmate and friend. Students' reactions to this type of event vary as they deal with a wide variety of feelings. It is important that you encourage your child to talk with you about feelings and concerns.

Duncan also shared signs of stress for parents to look for as they support their children:

• Some children may have physical symptoms. They may complain of stomachaches, headaches, or problems with eating.
• Some children may have changes in their sleep patterns. They may sleep more or less than usual.
• Some children may lose interest in peer relationships. They may express worry or concern if separated from family members, as well as indicate a need for extra attention from parents.
• Some students may display antisocial behavior. They may become more aggressive and/or hostile.

"Your presence, concern, and support will be essential in helping your child deal with his or her grief," the principal said. "If we can provide further assistance, please contact us at 770-567-8770."

Surrounding counties are retiring their No. 32 jerseys for Dylan Thomas.

Photo credit: Tommy Polnaszek / Vivid Moments