16 year old High School football player Jakobe Cooper died during practice

Jakobe Cooper a 16 year old high school football player in Mississippi died this week after collapsing on the football field.

The teen was transported to North Mississippi Medical Center in Tupelo, where he was prounced dead.

Cooper was a standout running back and linebacker for Shannon High School.

Shannon High School Principal Jason Arledge issued this statement yesterday.

The principal of Shannon High School, Jason Arledge, issued a statement Wednesday to the Shannon school community.

His full statement is below.

“Our Red Raider family is heartbroken due to the loss of one of our own. Ja Kobe Cooper was passionate for all aspects of life, he was extremely respectful to his teachers and administrators, and he was a joy to be around. Whether we knew him as a student, as a football player, or as a classmate, he was a valued member of our Red Raider family, and we will continue to miss him.

We will have additional counselors available at Shannon High School on Wednesday, June 17th from 9:00 am to 3:00 pm. Any student or staff member who needs or wishes to participate is encouraged to visit us on Wednesday. There will also be a candlelight vigil and balloon release to celebrate Ja Kobe on Thursday, June 18th at 7:30 pm at the high school. If you would like to participate or assist with the vigil, please call us at Shannon High School at (662)767-9566. Further instructions and arrangements will be delivered at a later date.

Please continue to remember the Cooper family in your thoughts and prayers in the days and weeks to come. Thank you for being a part of our Red Raider family.”

Please pray for the Cooper family, this is such tragic news.