West Haven football player dies suddenly, days prior to Connecticut state championship
WEST HAVEN, CONNECTICUT – West Haven High School announced, on Tuesday, a member of the Blue Devils football team died suddenly just five days prior to the team's first state championship game appearance in 20 years.
According to CTInsider’s Sean Patrick Bowley, the varsity member has been identified as sophomore lineman Christopher Fidalgo-Pugh, 15.
The cause Fidalgo-Pugh's death, which occurred at Yale New Haven Children's Hospital on Tuesday morning, is not yet known.
West Haven is set to face Staples on Saturday for the Class LL state championship.
"He was not only an integral part of our school's athletic community but also a bright and cherished member of our student body. The loss of such a promising young life is profoundly felt by us all," West Haven principal Dana Parades said in a statement, per a report by NBC Connecticut.
"It's important to recognize that everyone copes with grief differently, and emotions may manifest in various ways. Some students may seek support immediately, while others may need time to process their feelings," Parades said.
Per Patrick Bowley’s report, the last time Fidalgo-Pugh last suited up was in West Haven’s regular season finale against Fairfield Prep. The reserve lineman had not played in either of the teams playoff games.
-- Andy Villamarzo | villamarzo@scorebooklive.com | @sbliveconn
