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Former Illinois Star defensive end Bobby Roundtree, who suffered a serious spinal cord injury in a swimming accident two years ago, has died, the university said on Friday. He was 23 years old.
Roundtree, a star in the two seasons he played for the Fighting Illini, died in the Tampa Bay area, although the circumstances of his death were not immediately known.
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“All of us with Illinois Athletics are shocked and saddened by the sudden passing of Bobby Roundtree,” athletic director Josh Whitman said in a statement. declaration. “From his first day on campus, Bobby was a leader. His work ethic, competitive spirit and pursuit of excellence set him apart.”
According to Chicago Sun-Times, Roundtree was injured on May 18, 2019, when he jumped into the water near John’s Pass in Madeira Beach, Fla., But the water was too shallow. The jump crippled Roundtree, ending his promising footballing career.
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“After his tragic accident, those same qualities enabled him to take on his new challenges with the same vigor and determination that we had seen on the football field. In doing so, he continued to bring light and inspiration to the life of to those around him, and, in fact, to so many people who had never had the pleasure of meeting him, “Whitman said.
Roundtree had documented his 18-month rehab on social media. The day before his death, Roundtree shared one final positive message.
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“Stay humble and continue to ELEVATE yourself.”
Roundtree played all 24 games in his first year and sophomore year, registering 116 total tackles and 11.5 sacks. In 2017 he tied for the team lead in the sacks and the following year he received Illinois’ best defensive player of the year award. He also received an All-Big Ten Honorable Mention.
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