13-Year-Old Football Player Dies After Sudden Cardiac Arrest at Practice

A North Carolina community is mourning the heartbreaking loss of 13-year-old Caden Sorrell, a middle school football player who died after suffering cardiac arrest during practice.

Caden collapsed on Friday, August 28, at Northwest Guilford Middle School in Greensboro. According to his family, practice had just begun when he ran a lap around the field and suddenly went into cardiac arrest.

He was rushed to Cone Health, where doctors fought to save his life using intensive emergency treatment, including ECMO, a heart pump, and other critical interventions.

Despite their efforts, Caden’s injuries were too severe.

He died on Sunday, August 30.

The exact cause of his cardiac arrest has not been publicly confirmed. His family’s fundraiser says doctors suspect a possible underlying genetic condition, meaning Caden’s four siblings—including his twin brother—are expected to undergo medical testing and specialist evaluations.

His sister described Caden as a bright, kind and caring boy who made people around him feel loved.

Northwest Guilford Middle School shared a message of grief with the community, while students, families and neighbors created a memorial where people could leave flowers and notes in his honor.

The tragedy also led to the postponement of a Northwest Guilford High School football game.

A fundraiser has been created to help Caden’s family with funeral expenses, medical testing for his siblings, lost wages and other costs during this devastating time.

Caden was only 13.

A young life full of possibility was suddenly taken away, leaving his family, teammates, classmates and entire community searching for answers.

Rest in peace, Caden. 💔🏈