LANCASTER, Texas — Family, teammates and neighbors filled the football field this week to remember Lancaster Early College High School sophomore Preston Malone III, 15, who died last week after a heat-related medical emergency at football practice .

The crowd gathered on the Tigers’ field for a balloon release, a quiet goodbye for a young lineman known for his work ethic and faith.

Lancaster ISD said athletic staff followed UIL heat-safety protocols and responded immediately when Malone reported he wasn’t feeling well during an indoor practice that lacked air conditioning. He was cooled in an ice bath and transported for treatment, but died two days later, according to the district.

On the field where he “left it all,” those who loved him tried to put words to the loss.

“If I could

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