“The trouble is we think we have time.” Buddha said that and the grief that struck over the football community fell along this line. Such a wonderful human being gone too soon! He was that jolly and bubbly Skyview High School lineman, the ray of sunshine, who’d prefer a big hug over a hi-five with his teammates. Who would’ve known a cheerful, perfectly healthy guy like him could even die, let alone die so soon? So young! So unexpectedly!

At just 16, the world laid William ‘Liam’ Sloan down to rest amidst grief and mourning from the football world. According to what Skyview Principal Andy Meyer stated, Liam died in his sleep from natural causes. Skyview Football honored William Sloan in their Instagram tribute on October 10 with a series of his photos and a long heartfelt caption. One heartbroken fan commented, “Rest in peace.” 

William Sloan was more than “a valued member of [Skyview HS] football team.” He was also “a model citizen,” “an incredible son,” “a loyal friend,” and “a hardworking student.” His teammates only had heartwarming things to say about him when KGW reporter Sydney Dorner spoke to them. The news of his passing has deeply shaken everybody like a “bad dream” as his longtime friend and teammate Aiden Sederstrom described. 

Despite Skyview going on a downward spiral this season, Liam was always there as a bright ray of sunshine with his “excitement, big smile” and a “big hug” as senior teammate Doogie Poindexter said. On Friday, around 200 Vancouver citizens paid their respects to the Skyview junior with a candlelight vigil. Sederstrom’s words highlight the impact of Liam on their football team. “It won’t ever feel the same, it won’t ever feel right. It just feels like we’re going to miss the heart and soul of our football team.” Still, the pain has transcended the football field as fans pour out their sorrow in the comments. 

William Liam Sloan is remembered by people

As tragedy struck Skyview with this unforeseen heartbreak, fans are sharing the grief. One sad fan wrote, “Thinking of this family! So devastating! My heart goes out to all his friends and family.” He may be young but he had a huge impact on Skyview with his admirable demeanor. 

William Sloan’s kindness and cheerfulness shone in the comments section. A user commented, “You’re going to be so missed Liam. A light in so many lives…” Well, even though Liam’s gone, it’s obvious how much people still care about him and remember the good times. He still holds a big place in the hearts of those he’s inspired in his short life. A broken fan wrote, “I miss you so much bro. The boys had a good night tonight sharing memories. You will not be forgotten. See you in the kingdom.” These type of comments alone shows what kind of a person Liam is. 

Sloan’s passing also left a void in his schoolmates. “We went all through middle school tgth. This is heartbreaking,” a friend shared. His teammates have also voiced their passion to strive better on the field in memory of the intensity that their late lineman brought to each game. 

But unexpected tragedies like this remind us that life is unpredictable. Anything could happen to anyone at any time. So while you’re able to, spread kindness, one day, they’ll preach about you.