The Wellington, Florida community is mourning the untimely death of Denali Smith, a college football player who collapsed while practicing on a local field. The 20-year-old, a senior at Graceland University in Iowa, passed away on Tuesday, July 23, 2024, just one day before his 21st birthday.
On Monday, July 22, Smith was practicing at Wellington High School, where he previously attended, when he suddenly collapsed. Despite immediate efforts to revive him, including CPR, Smith was rushed to Wellington Medical Center, where he died the following morning. His mother, Latoya Mills, expressed her deep grief and pride in her son, describing him as a “true leader” with a “heart of gold.”
Smith was well-known and admired in the Wellington community for his dedication to sports and his positive attitude. He played football at Wellington High School for four years before earning a scholarship to Graceland University, where he was studying psychology with dreams of becoming an educator and motivational speaker.
Scot Haynes, Smith’s former lacrosse coach, highlighted Smith’s healthy lifestyle, noting, “He never drank, smoked, or did drugs. He wouldn’t even take stimulants for pre-workouts. He was in the best shape of anyone I know.”
Smith’s death has drawn attention to the issue of sudden cardiac arrest among young athletes, which is the leading medical cause of death in this group. According to the National Institutes of Health, black athletes are at a higher risk.
At the vigil, held Thursday evening, July 25, hundreds of community members, friends, and family gathered to remember Smith. They wore green, brought balloons, and shared their favorite memories of him. Josh Miloch, a friend, spoke about Smith’s ability to motivate others: “Nobody else could get you motivated, ready to play like Denali was.” Smith’s impact also extended beyond his athletic prowess. He was known for his genuine care for others and his leadership qualities. “He was a blessing—a big blessing in my life,” said another friend.
“He was the definition of positive,” Mills shared at a vigil. I feel extremely blessed that he and the universe chose me to be his mother. It’s almost unexplainable; his heart was healthy.” “Honestly, I would like to thank him for choosing me to be his mom,” Mills added. That’s what I would like to say to him. I’m honored. It’s just an absolute honor. He’s the best human being I know.”
The cause of Smith’s collapse and subsequent death is still being determined, and his body has been taken to the medical examiner’s office for further investigation.
