There was a young lady that played with my club a few years ago. Her team left at U16 for greener pastures and they have all gone in their separate directions since that time. I have kept up with their progress since they moved on and two of the girls signed with a huge division one school a few weeks ago. The long lady I am speaking about was a year younger and very talented. She was really interested in attending a big division one program in Tennessee.

Two weeks ago she collapsed while running at track practice. She was revived at the scene and hospitalized, where tests were run. She was subsequently cleared and returned to training this week. She collapsed again and tragically did not survive. She was 17 years of age.

A terrible loss to our soccer community. Practice last week was filled with emotion, as many of our boys and girls attend the same high school. I spoke with those closest to her, but there is really nothing to say at a time like this that makes anyone feel better. I did say that tomorrow is promised to no-one and they should live each day to the fullest. I also asked to think what this young lady what like them to do from here.

I wish her family the best. I can not imagine what they are going through right now. My prayers and thoughts are with them.

There is nothing more important right now. All soccer related political issues seem ridiculous now in retrospect. I hope we can all keep things in perspective from now on.

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The parents of soccer standout Sarah Landauer, are asking that people donate to a soccer endowment in her name at the University of Florida rather than send flowers.

Checks should be sent to the Sarah Landauer Soccer Endowment at Gator Boosters Inc., P.O. Box 13796, Gainesville, FL 32604.