Former Archer RB Nicholas "Nick" Blakely dies after collapsing at practice

Mike Gallagher

Aug 29, 2017 - 15:09

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Nicholas "Nick" Blakely

GWINNETT COUNTY, Ga. - A Stetson University defensive linebacker and former high school football standout collapsed on the field after practice and died on Monday.

Nicholas "Nick" Blakely, a 19-year-old sophomore from Lawrenceville, was on the sidelines shortly after practice started Monday evening when he told coaches and fellow players that he wasn't feeling well, then collapsed. He was rushed to Florida Hospital DeLand, and later died.

Stetson University shared the devastating news on the school's athletics website, gohatters.com, where a memorial photo honoring Blakely's life has been placed at the top of the page.

University officials said grief counselors will be available at the Athletic Training Center with the football team.

Funeral arrangements have not yet been announced, but friends and football players will gather at noon Tuesday for a memorial at Allen Hall.

Blakely was a three-year letter winner under Archer High School's coach, Andy Dyer. He was a running back and safety.

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Mike Gallagher Mike Gallagher is a Georgia-based freelance journalist covering local news, community developments, and regional issues that matter most to residents across the state. Writing for Georgianewsday.com since 2016, Mike has built a reputation for clear, balanced reporting and a strong connection to the communities he serves. His work spans city council decisions, school board updates, small business features, public safety reports, and statewide policy changes. In addition to local coverage, Mike occasionally reports on state politics and national headlines, offering readers context on how broader decisions impact Georgia communities. Known for his steady, fact-driven approach, Mike prioritizes accuracy, fairness, and accessibility in every story. Whether covering a town hall meeting or breaking political developments, he aims to inform readers with clarity and integrity. Outside the newsroom, Mike remains actively engaged in Georgia’s civic landscape, always seeking the next story that shapes the state’s future.