UMD Football Player Died From Heat Stroke, Family Says: Report

COLLEGE PARK, MD -- The family of a University of Maryland football player who died last month following a workout said that heat stroke was the cause, according to a report.

CBS Sports reports that the university had not disclosed the cause of death for Jordan McNair out of deference for the privacy rights of the family, but now the family has released that cause of death on the website of a foundation that has been created in memory of McNair.

His parents, Tonya and Martin, have created the Jordan McNair Foundation after the 19-year-old's death on June 13.

"Breaking Chains/the Jordan McNair Training Facility is a non-profit organization whose mission is to provide a safe and nurturing environment where youth and young adults can develop and enhance their athletic, educational, and artistic talents through elite training and coaching," the foundation's website states.

McNair was hospitalized after football practice at the University of Maryland on May 29, university officials said.

"For those who had the opportunity to know Jordan, you understand the sadness we are feeling," University of Maryland Executive Athletic Director Damon Evans said in a statement.

McNair, a sophomore, was described by Maryland's athletic director as a "tremendous athlete, student, teammate" and an "outstanding young man."

During the first week in June, he was airlifted to the University of Maryland Shock Trauma Center, where he received a liver transplant, according to a GoFundMe campaign set up to assist his family with medical costs.

McNair was expected to be hospitalized for several months in recovery from an undisclosed condition that the GoFundMe campaign organizers said had him fighting for his life.

"Our team is heartbroken with the loss of Jordan McNair. Jordan was an incredible young man, and his passion and enthusiasm made him an invaluable and beloved member of our team. Jordan was a hard worker and he always had a smile on his face," University of Maryland Football Coach DJ Durkin said in a statement.

"He was an extremely talented football player and a humble and genuine human being. He embodied the essence of what it means to be a teammate," Durkin said. "Jordan was a fighter. Over the past few weeks, Jordan never gave up with his family, friends and team by his side. Our team will continue to be inspired by the spirit of this brave fighter. Please continue to pray for Jordan's family during this difficult time."

Additional reporting by Patch editor Elizabeth Janney

Photo of Jordan McNair courtesy of Patch partner GoFundMe