MANILA, PHILIPPINES — Yoro Sangare, a 22-year-old forward of the University of the Philippines (UP) men’s football team, passed away on Thursday after collapsing on campus, school officials announced.
The tragedy occurred on the day of the Maroons’ UAAP Season 85 men’s football match against Far Eastern University at the UP Football Field.
Sangare, a Physical Education major from Maui, was walking near his dormitory when he suddenly collapsed. The football player was sidelined for the season due to an undisclosed injury suffered in the preseason. He was pronounced dead when he arrived at the hospital, according to the UP College of Human Kinetics Dean Francis “Kiko” Diaz.
“Yoro was just walking in front of Acacia dormitory where he resides and collapsed,” Diaz said.
“He was brought immediately to the University Health Service [which is 20 to 25 meters away where he collapsed] but was pronounced dead on arrival,” he added.
An autopsy is ongoing to determine the cause of his death.
Prior to the start of Thursday’s games between UP and FEU and Ateneo and DLSU at the UP Diliman Football Field, a moment of silence was observed in memory of Sangare.
“He was very driven, hardworking, and very kind. He was the kindest person I’ve ever met,” said UP assistant coach Popoy Clarino. “He started training with us a year before he got in.
“Because of his dedication and hard work, we took a chance with him. He really wanted to bring his talent to UP. He will be missed but we are going to celebrate his life,” he added.
After tying with FEU in the game, UP finished the 85th UAAP Season in fifth position as the Fighting Maroons were led by a brace from Arturo Alleje. Sangare’s teammates dedicated the game to him, playing their best until the end.
“The players gave their very best for Yoro. This game is dedicated to him. We fought until the end, and it’s all for him,” Clarino said.
The UP community and Philippine football fans expressed their condolences and sympathies to the Sangare family on social media. – WhatALife!/Jayve
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