WAYNESVILLE, Mo. – A young soccer player from Waynesville passed away after collapsing on the field Thursday night.
Ken Taylor was rushed to the hospital after collapsing while playing soccer at Roubidoux Park, according to a Facebook post from the city of Waynesville. He has since passed away, according to the post.
“We stand with the Taylor family during this difficult time and extend our deepest condolences on the loss of our beloved Ken. May we all find strength and solace in each other's embrace. “The city will place a wreath at the soccer field where this tragedy occurred and welcomes the community to make their own donations in memory of Ken Taylor,” the Facebook post reads.
The mayor of Waynesville posted on Facebook that counselors provided free counseling services to the football players' families and teammates.
“About the death of Ken Taylor. I was contacted by a local therapist who is providing free trauma therapy to Ken's family and teammates. It is difficult to process. If anyone is interested, please contact me. We ask that you please do so and we will connect you with that resource. Please email us at mayor@waynesvillemo.org,” said Mayor Sean Wilson.
Waynesville Youth Soccer also posted on Facebook: “WYS is deeply saddened by the passing of WSR athlete Ken Taylor. Our hearts go out to the Taylor family and we extend our deepest condolences to the Taylor family during this difficult time. is heavy. We stand together and offer our support and love to those grieving the loss of our beloved Ken. In memory of Ken, the City will lay a wreath at the football field and invite the community to honor him. We are appealing for donations in their honor. As we mourn this tragic loss, let us find strength and solace in each other's embrace. We know the military community is deeply involved in the Taylor family and WYS. ”