The town is grieving this week after the sudden and heartbreaking passing of senior football player Axel Stammen, a beloved teammate, classmate, and friend whose life ended quietly in his sleep. Axel, known for his strength on the field and his even greater capacity for lifting up those around him, died of sudden cardiac arrest — an unexpected tragedy that has left the community in shock.
Axel’s parents found him at home early Friday morning, the alarm clock still sounding beside his bed. With no signs of illness or warning, the news came as a devastating blow to his family and the school community that had admired him for his leadership, humor, and kindness.
At school, the weight of his absence was immediate. His football locker remained untouched — helmet resting exactly where he left it after Thursday night’s film session, shoulder pads still drying from practice. Teammates gathered quietly in front of it, many unable to speak, struggling to comprehend a world where their anchor was no longer standing beside them.
Teachers learned of Axel’s passing during first period. Some had to stop mid-lesson, their voices unsteady as they read the principal’s announcement. The day moved slowly and heavily. In the cafeteria, friends sat in silence around the table where Axel once laughed loudly and easily, always the first to make someone smile on a hard day.
Counselors opened the school library for support, though many students simply walked the hallways holding Axel’s old practice jersey — a familiar number in familiar fabric, now carrying a weight none were ready to bear.
Axel was known not only for his talent as a lineman, but for his character. He was the first to reach out a hand to a teammate knocked down in drills, the one who stayed late to help underclassmen memorize plays, the one who could turn tension into laughter without trying. His presence grounded the team, and his loss leaves a space no roster can fill.
A candlelight vigil will be held Sunday at 6:00 p.m. beneath the goalposts where Axel once stood with pride. Instead of stadium lights, there will be candles — and instead of cheers, there will be shared grief and love for a young life taken far too soon.
The team has not yet discussed how they will take the field without him. For now, they are simply trying to carry each other.
Our deepest condolences go out to Axel’s family, teammates, coaches, teachers, and friends.
He will be remembered forever — for his strength, his kindness, and the way he lifted others up, both in football and in life.