Ottawa University is mourning the loss of a student athlete.

According to the college, sophomore Samuel (Sam) Brazeal was killed in a motor vehicle accident in Franklin County on Wednesday morning. Brazeal, an education major from Perrin, Texas, was a starting offensive lineman on the OU football team.

“This is a very sad day for Ottawa University as we grieve the loss of one of our very special students,” said President Kevin C. Eichner. “Our thoughts and prayers go out to Sam’s family, his friends, the members of our campus community, and all of Sam’s teammates on the OU football team during this difficult time.”

Brazeal earned three letters in football and four in basketball at Community Christian School, in Mineral Wells, Texas. He participated in the Don Hardin Bowl, an all-star 6-man football game. Brazeal was a three-time All-TCAF (Texas Christian Athletic Fellowship) selection and earned All-State honors in 2012.

“Sam was a key member of our team who worked hard every day to improve,” said head football coach Kent Kessinger. “He earned his spot on the starting line this season. He was a leader on and off the field and will be missed by all who knew and played alongside him. Sam was definitely a friend to all and cared about all his teammates. He was a fantastic young man.”

University Chaplain John Holtzhüter, Director of Counseling Donna Washington and Director of Campus Ministries Briley Rivers will be available in the Gangwish Library Student Center Zook Conference Room today from 1 p.m. – 4 p.m. to offer support and counsel.