Arizona senior offensive lineman Zach Hemmila died overnight, Wildcats head coach Rich Rodriguez announced on Monday. Hemmila was 22 years old.
Our thoughts and prayers are with the family and friends of Zach Hemmila. We will miss you. #BearDownZach pic.twitter.com/ini3IiQ3jr
— Arizona Football (@ArizonaFBall) August 8, 2016
No cause of death has been given yet, and Arizona AD Greg Byrne said the lineman died in his sleep and was found by his cousin this morning.
Rodriguez held practice as normal on Monday and informed his players of their teammate’s passing at the conclusion. He also delivered an emotional statement to the media following the day’s practice.
Rodriguez said Hemmila’s family had been in town in recent days and that he had been in contact with them. He also said he just had a lengthy conversation with the lineman on Saturday night, but only shared a few details with the gathered reporters.
“About everything,” Rodriguez said of the conversation. “How happy he was.”
Hemmila, a fifth-year senior, was the favorite to start at center in 2016, according to The Arizona Republic. He played in 13 games last season for the Wildcats, recording six starts at left guard.
There was an outpouring of support and remembrance on social media from both the Arizona community and all around the college football world at the news of Hemmila’s passing.
Please pray for the Hemmila family. We will miss you Zach. #Forever65
— Rod Smith (@CoachRSmith1) August 8, 2016
Sending our thoughts and prayers to the @ArizonaFBall team and the family and friends of Zach Hemmila. #PAC12Family
— Utah Football (@Utah_Football) August 8, 2016
My thoughts and prayers go out to Zach Hemmila and his family. Rest In Paradise.
— Darell Garretson (@D_garretson) August 8, 2016
