GREENVILLE, S.C. — Furman's football helmets this season will include a decal in memory of the late Paladins defensive lineman from Cobb County, Bryce Stanfield.
Furman coach Clay Hendrix announced the “Stanfield Strong” logo Monday in honor of the player, who died on Feb. 9, two days after he collapsed while working out at the school's stadium.
Furman announced two weeks later that Stanfield's cause of death was a pulmonary embolism that was not related to football.
Stanfield, who was 21 and from Acworth, Georgia, played in 34 games in three seasons. He had 49 career tackles and seven sacks.
Along with the logo in Stanfield's honor, the helmets also have American flag and Southern Conference decals.
Furman, the defending Southern Conference champion starts its season at No. 7 Mississippi on Aug. 31.
Stanfield, known for his vibrant personality and dedication both on and off the field, was deeply involved in various activities beyond football.
As shared by Jason Cassidy, Associate Vice President for Student Life and Dean of Students, Bryce was an active participant in the "Men of Distinction" program, where he mentored middle school boys in the community, served as a positive role model and engaged in activities like basketball and reading sessions at elementary schools.
"Talking to some of his roommates, he was (also) in the Grill Club, which is a group that just gets together, and they love to grill out," Cassidy said back in February. "And his roommates enjoyed it when he would bring some extra grilled steak back to the apartment."
The profound impact of Stanfield's passing was evident by the memories shared by everyone present, including Hendrix, who expressed the difficulty of grappling with such a tragedy.
"Nothing. Nothing's been easy for three days," Hendrix said, adding later, "We all want to ask about why. And you know, hopefully, we'll find some things out, you know, but you know, again, I believe the good Lord has a plan for all of us. And he doesn't make mistakes, as somebody told me."