Crowd gathers to express support for fallen player

As early as 7:30 this morning (Saturday), a large crowd began to gather in the parking lot at a screen printing and embroidery shop around 52nd and Range Line Road to purchase a special t-shirt to wear at tonight’s re-scheduled game between the Joplin Eagles and Webb City Cardinals football teams.

The shop wasn’t open yet, but they wanted to be first in line.

It was Wednesday of this week when 16-year-old Kadin Roberts-Day died after he collapsed at Joplin High school football practice.

The teen experienced the medical emergency inside Kaminsky Gym where the team was practicing due to excessive heat and humidity.

The game was shifted from Friday night to Saturday as a result of the tragedy.

The death is currently under review. Jasper County Coroner Rob Chappel says although Roberts-Day had a history of severe asthma, a doctor had cleared him to play sports.

A large crowd is expected at the game. Many Eagles fans including parents, students and others – and maybe some supporting the Cardinals – will no doubt be wearing the bright red t-shirts, emblazoned with the fallen player’s initials and team number.