New Brockton football player who passed out, died after practice identified

NEW BROCKTON, Ala (WDHN) — A New Brockton football player is dead after collapsing during football practice Tuesday afternoon.

Coffee County Coroner Arnold Woodham identified the player as 14-year-old Semaj Wilkins.

The Coffee County School system confirmed Wilkins was a New Brockton High School freshman.

“I am asking the community to continue to be in prayer for his family, his teammates, his coaches, and all affected by the tragic loss of Mr. Wilkins,” said Woodham.

The coroner tells WDHN Wilkins had a medical emergency around 4:30 p.m. and died after being transported to Medical Center Enterprise.

Around the time Wilkins collapsed Tuesday afternoon, the National Weather Service showed the New Brockton area was under a level 3 heat risk, which is considered major.

That level of risk is considered hot enough to affect anyone if they do not have effective cooling or adequate hydration.

At 4:00 p.m. that afternoon, the nearest weather reporting station showed the temperature in the area was about 97 degrees, and the heat index was at 100 degrees. That’s the “feels like” temperature that considers the temperature humidity, and dew point.

Former students who played under the current staff tell WDHN that the team takes heat protocol and hydration very seriously and carefully carries out those protocols.

The School system said a crisis response team, including pastors, counselors, and other support staff, will be available for students at New Brockton High starting Wednesday.

“Our hearts are broken for the family’s loss, and our prayers are with them as they mourn,” said Coffee County Schools in a statement.

The Coffee County District Attorney’s Office and Coffee County Sheriff’s Office are leading the investigation.

“This is a very emotional time for the family and emergency responders involved,” said coroner Woodham. “Please respect and pray for the family during this difficult time.”

Following the announcement of the student’s death Tuesday night, U.S. Representative and Coffee County native Barry Moore took to social media to express condolences.

“Heather and I are praying for our friends in New Brockton after the passing of a young football player this afternoon,” said Rep. Moore.

More information is expected to be released soon.

Stay with WDHN for updates.

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