Tragic Death of University of Minnesota Duluth Football Player Reed Ryan Revealed to be Result of Undetected Genetic Heart Condition

Duluth, Minnesota - The University of Minnesota Duluth (UMD) community is mourning the loss of 22-year-old college football player Reed Ryan, who tragically passed away on Tuesday, November 28th, just one week after suffering a cardiac arrest during a team weights session. According to his obituary, Ryan's death was caused by an undetected genetic heart condition.

On November 21st, Ryan, a defensive lineman for the UMD Bulldogs football team, was participating in a workout in the weight-room alongside his teammates when the incident occurred. Thanks to the rapid response of the UMD athletic training staff, who immediately administered CPR to restore Ryan's pulse, he was swiftly transferred to the intensive care unit at St. Mary's Duluth.

"Reed Ryan, our much loved son, brother, uncle, teammate, and friend was welcomed by the angels into Heaven on November 28, 2023," stated Ryan's obituary. "Reed loved people, he could talk to anyone and prided himself on being surrounded by friends, family, mentors, and being part of a team." Known for his infectious smile, Ryan was described as someone who lived life to the fullest despite his short years.

In addition to his passion for football, Ryan had a diverse range of interests. He loved to travel, draw, cook, and was an avid collector of shoes. Ryan even started his own online vintage store called Thrifted Tiger. His accomplishments extended beyond the football field as well. After graduating from Waunakee High School in 2019, he was honored as the State of Wisconsin Defensive Player of the Year and received the prestigious Tim Krumrie award.

Following his outstanding performance in high school, Ryan accepted a full scholarship to play football at North Dakota State University (NDSU) for four seasons. He was an integral part of NDSU's success, winning two NCAA Division I AA FCS National titles in 2019 and 2021. In 2023, Ryan made the decision to continue his football career as a Bulldog at the University of Minnesota-Duluth.

UMD head football coach Curt Wiese expressed his devastation over Ryan's passing in a heartfelt statement. "Reed aspired to be better every day at whatever task was at hand. He helped bring out the best in others with his positive attitude, infectious smile, and genuine care for the people around him," said Wiese. "We were fortunate to have Reed on our team, and he made our program, our department, and our community a better place in a short period of time. Reed will be greatly missed, but his legacy will live on forever. He was the epitome of a UMD Bulldog, and what we can all aspire to be."

Ryan is survived by his parents, Erin and Stephanie, his sister Robyn, and his brother Chase. Funeral services for Ryan will be held on Saturday, and the UMD community is rallying around his family during this difficult time. The loss of Reed Ryan has left a profound impact on those who knew him, and his memory will surely endure as a testament to his remarkable character and unwavering spirit.