IRMO, S.C. — Dutch Fork High School won't play its previously scheduled football game Friday as the school mourns one of its players who died while at practice.
Richland County Coroner Naida Rutherford Wednesday identified the student as 17-year-old Jack Alkhatib of Irmo. He was an offensive lineman for the Silver Foxes.
Both Dutch Fork and their opponent, Gaffney High, confirmed late Wednesday afternoon that Friday's game would not happen.
"Our prayers are with Dutch Fork in the days and weeks ahead. May you find healing in these difficult times," Gaffey's team said in a statement on Twitter.
"The pain we all feel is immeasurable," the Dutch Fork football Twitter account said Thursday. "Please keep our team, our Dutch Fork family, and especially the family of our @AlkhatibJack lifted in prayers. There is a tribute memorial on our football field. Psalm 34:18 We love you Jack #FoxForever."
Alkhatib was practicing with the team Tuesday afternoon when he collapsed. He was rushed to Prisma Health-Parkridge where doctors pronounced him dead a short time later.
The district did not say at what time during practice the incident happened. Lexington-Richland Five said they will have counselors at the school for the next several days.
"The death of any youth in our community is a tragedy for all," Lexington School District Five said in a statement. "At this difficult time, we turn our attention to supporting the family."
Marlin Taylor a former assistant coach at Dutch Fork who's now the head coach at Lower Richland High, remembered his former player as a team first player who worked extremely hard.
"I know what Jack meant to that team, that program and community," Taylor said. "So I know it was hard. Just knowing Jack he's one of those personalities- if you knew him you know you had to love him."
The school placed a memorial on the football field Wednesday afternoon in tribute to Alkhatib. The display included his number 60 jersey.
The school is planning a memorial on Friday. Details to follow.