Colorado high school freshman football player Noah Vesich died unexpectedly at 16, leaving Columbine teammates and family mourning a student athlete known for his love of the game.

Noah Vesich, a 16-year-old running back for Columbine High School in the Denver suburbs, died earlier this week, the school’s football program said. The New York Post reported that the Columbine team described the death as unexpected and offered prayers for his family and friends.

Vesich wore No. 21 for the Rebels and was listed as a running back. He hailed from Littleton, Colorado. The program had planned to honor him before Saturday’s freshman game against Chatfield.

Team posts devastation after losing a “shining light”

Columbine Rebels Football posted on Facebook Wednesday night after learning of the loss.

The team wrote: “We are absolutely devastated to learn about the passing of one of our bright student athletes, Noah Vesich.”

“He was a shining light to all who knew him. We are praying for his family and friends during this difficult time. #21 #Rebelball26.”

The program’s X account also said Vesich died “unexpectedly.” Teammates and students marked the loss on the field. During Columbine’s 7-3 road loss to Chatfield, students wore white in his honor. That defeat snapped a three-game winning streak. The team also promoted the Chatfield matchup with a 21 decal.

Family faces autopsy and funeral costs as community steps up

Family members said Vesich loved family, fishing, and football, along with camping and exploring Colorado. A GoFundMe page set up for the family said relatives were “going through an incredibly painful time” and now faced the cost of an autopsy and funeral.

The fundraising page stated the campaign was created to cover those immediate expenses and ease the stress on the family while they mourn. It referred to Vesich as Ariana’s brother and asked for support, prayers, and kindness. As of early Saturday morning, the fundraiser had raised more than $32,000.

No cause or manner of death has been released publicly. The team and family have focused on remembrance rather than details still unknown.

A 16-year-old athlete should be lining up for Saturday freshman football, not leaving teammates in white jerseys and a family scrambling to cover funeral bills. When a community shows up fast for one of its own, that is the standard worth keeping.