JACKSONVILLE, Fla. — The official cause of death is still pending for a teen who became ill at football practice and later died at the hospital.
Clay County Sheriff's Office Investigators said William Shogran Jr. was at Camp Blanding Wednesday for a four-day training camp. Officials tell Action News during the practice, he told his coach he was dizzy and he felt like he might pass out.
Paramedics were called and Clay County Fire Rescue responded within five minutes.
Shogran later died at the hospital.
The Sheriff's Office has not yet released the official incident report
An autopsy on Shogran was scheduled for Thursday in Alachua County. Officials said the official cause of death could take several weeks as the medical examiner awaits toxicology and other test results.
Thursday, Action News contacted the Florida High School Athletic Association.
A spokesperson released this statement: "Everybody in the FHSAA family is deeply saddened by yesterday's tragedy. The FHSAA's thoughts and prayers are with the student-athlete's family, his teammates, coaches, classmates and the entire Sebastian River community. The FHSAA will allow the police to complete their process. When that concludes, the FHSAA will make an inquiry to Sebastian River for further information."
Though an official cause of death is pending, the tragedy is a reminder that all students are in potential danger in the heat.
Action News spoke with Clay High School coach Josh Hoekstra about some of his team's safety methods.
"At any moment, our players know that if they don't feel good, they can hustle off and get a sip of water," said Hoekstra.
Hoekstra said his players start practice early in the day.
"All summer long, we bring them out in the morning and we're usually out on the field around 10 just trying to get them used to being outside in the heat," he said.
Action News asked the FHSAA for a copy of the statewide procedures regarding heat. The rules range from the number of practices allowed, to hydration and rest policies and even rules on wearing pads.
"It's great," Hoekstra said. "Since they put it in, I mean the first so many days you're only allowed in helmets and then shoulder pads and I think it gets these kids used to being out in the heat."
Shogran's family has released funeral information for the teen. A visitation will be held Monday, Aug. 18 from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. at Seawinds Funeral Home, 735 S. Fleming Street, Sebastian. A service will be held Tuesday, Aug. 19 at Sebastian River High School auditorium at 4 p.m. with internment to immediately follow at Sebastian Cemetery.
Donations may be made to the William Shogran Scholarship Fund, c/o Sebastian Christian Church, 190 Day Drive, Sebastian, FL 32958. To send the family a message, visit Shogran's memorial page.
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