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http://bleacherreport.com/articles/2169882-kent-state-center-jason-bitsko-passes-away-at-age-21
Kent State offensive lineman Jason Bitsko, 21, passed away on Wednesday. The cause of death is unknown after a roommate found him unresponsive.
A release posted on the university'sofficial athletics site states police believe an "undetermined medical issue" was a factor. It also included comments from both director of athletics Joel Nielsen and head football coach Paul Haynes.
"Kent State University and the entire Kent community mourns his passing," Nielsen said. "We are heartbroken by the news of Jason's death. Our thoughts and prayers go out to his family, friends, teammates and everyone whose lives he touched."
"Our players, coaches and everyone involved with our team are hurting because he was family," Haynes said. "As a team, we will come together and get through this one day at a time."
The Golden Flashes were made aware of the situation at the conclusion of the day's morning practice. All further activities scheduled for the team on Wednesday were canceled.
Bitsko started all 12 games for Kent State last season at right tackle and was slated to become the team's starting center heading into his junior campaign. The Huber Heights, Ohio, native had developed into one of the most reliable and versatile linemen in the Mid-American Conference.
His bio on the school's athletics site notes he was a co-recipient of the Read Award, which is handed out for "exemplifying hard work and dedication beyond the call of duty." College football writer Phil Steelealso named him to the Preseason All-MAC Second Team.
Dri Archer, who played college football at Kent State before being drafted by the Pittsburgh Steelers in May, sent out a message of condolence:
Dri Archer
@Dri_Archer1
Sad day for the kent state family! I'm shocked by this news!! #RIP54 love you bro
New England Patriots wide receiver Julian Edelman, who also starred at Kent State, provided support for the family as well:
Julian Edelman ✔ @Edelman11
My condolences go out to the family of Jason Bitsko & the @KentStFootball family on your tragic loss today. #KSUJason54
No further details were provided as to how Kent State plans to move forward following the tragedy.
The Golden Flashes are currently scheduled to start the regular season at home in 10 days against Ohio
Kent State offensive lineman Jason Bitsko, 21, passed away on Wednesday. The cause of death is unknown after a roommate found him unresponsive.
A release posted on the university'sofficial athletics site states police believe an "undetermined medical issue" was a factor. It also included comments from both director of athletics Joel Nielsen and head football coach Paul Haynes.
"Kent State University and the entire Kent community mourns his passing," Nielsen said. "We are heartbroken by the news of Jason's death. Our thoughts and prayers go out to his family, friends, teammates and everyone whose lives he touched."
"Our players, coaches and everyone involved with our team are hurting because he was family," Haynes said. "As a team, we will come together and get through this one day at a time."
The Golden Flashes were made aware of the situation at the conclusion of the day's morning practice. All further activities scheduled for the team on Wednesday were canceled.
Bitsko started all 12 games for Kent State last season at right tackle and was slated to become the team's starting center heading into his junior campaign. The Huber Heights, Ohio, native had developed into one of the most reliable and versatile linemen in the Mid-American Conference.
His bio on the school's athletics site notes he was a co-recipient of the Read Award, which is handed out for "exemplifying hard work and dedication beyond the call of duty." College football writer Phil Steelealso named him to the Preseason All-MAC Second Team.
Dri Archer, who played college football at Kent State before being drafted by the Pittsburgh Steelers in May, sent out a message of condolence:
Dri Archer@Dri_Archer1
Sad day for the kent state family! I'm shocked by this news!! #RIP54 love you bro
New England Patriots wide receiver Julian Edelman, who also starred at Kent State, provided support for the family as well:
Julian Edelman ✔ @Edelman11My condolences go out to the family of Jason Bitsko & the @KentStFootball family on your tragic loss today. #KSUJason54
No further details were provided as to how Kent State plans to move forward following the tragedy.
The Golden Flashes are currently scheduled to start the regular season at home in 10 days against Ohio
