MEAWW.COM / NEWS / HUMAN INTEREST

Reed Ryan: University of Minnesota Duluth football player collapses during workout, family says he 'died doing what he loved'

Minnesota college football player Reed Ryan's sudden death has left the university and his family in sorrow

DULUTH, MINNESOTA: Reed Ryan, a 22-year-old football player from the University of Minnesota Duluth, shockingly died on November 28 after collapsing during a workout earlier this month. 

His family reportedly announced that the young athlete was "doing what he loved" at the time of the incident.

Ryan's sudden death has left the university community and his family in deep sorrow.

Who was Reed Ryan?

Reed made a name for himself at Waunakee High School in Wisconsin, which led to him receiving a full scholarship to North Dakota State University.

He spent four seasons playing for the Bison before transferring to the University of Minnesota Duluth.

During his single year with the Bulldogs, Reed made a significant contribution, recording eight total tackles and one sack, per TMZ.

How did Reed Ryan die?

As per the obituary penned by his family, Ryan, a 6ft 3in, 241-pound defensive end, was in the midst of a training session in a weight room on November 21, doing what he loved, when he suddenly suffered a cardiac arrest.

School officials immediately initiated life-saving measures and managed to restore Ryan’s pulse. He was promptly rushed to the ICU. Despite their best efforts, Ryan reportedly tragically died seven days later.

In their obituary for Ryan, his family attributed the medical emergency to "an undetected genetic heart condition and a large, loving heart."

"Reed had a contagious smile and lived life to the fullest in his short years," the man's family noted

"Reed loved people, he could talk to anyone and prided himself on being surrounded by friends, family, mentors, and being part of a team."

University community and family left in deep sorrow

"Our staff and players are devastated about Reed's passing," UMD head football coach Curt Wiese stated.

"Reed aspired to be better every day at whatever task was at hand. He helped bring out the best in others with his positive attitude, infectious smile, and genuine care for the people around him," he added.

In a statement released on Wednesday, NDSU football paid tribute to Ryan, describing him as "the ultimate teammate, a constant source of joy, a genuine selfless spirit, and a beloved friend." 

A Facebook user, whose relationship with Ryan is not known, posted a heartfelt tribute in his honor.

"There are some things that happen in life that you just can’t make sense of, and some people in life that you are a better person for just having the honor of knowing them," the person wrote. 

The user added, "Reed Ryan was one of those people. An amazing soul gone far too soon. My heart breaks for his family, and friends..but know the amazing things he’s done, and been a part of will live on for years to come."

"Bunni Madison, Robyn Ray, Paige Parr, Chuck Parr we are so incredibly sorry for this loss Fly high uncle Reed and watch over them," the person concluded.

"Rest easy Reed Ryan. You will always have a special spot in my heart! Your smile always lit up the room! Love you simba !" said another user. 

Trey Dill whose profile on X reads, 'University of Minnesota Duluth Defensive Coordinator', wrote on the site, "I’m so thankful to have had the opportunity to be a part of your life. Your attitude and energy will live on forever. I miss you and love you."