The Texas High School football community is mourning the loss of one of its own.
Tyler Ulrich, a former Azle High School standout who continued his football career at Southern Nazarene University, died Thursday after suffering a traumatic injury during a college game in Arkansas last Saturday. He was 21.
Ulrich’s connection to Azle remained strong long after his High School career ended. He wore No. 30 for the Hornets and returned to Azle this past summer to spend time around the program and help younger players. Longtime Azle coach Jason Vines remembered Ulrich as an exceptionally selfless teammate, leader and young man who cared deeply about the people around him.
After graduating from Azle, Ulrich continued playing at Southern Nazarene in Oklahoma. He was in his third season with the Crimson Storm and had developed into an important part of the defense.
Ulrich appeared in 20 games with 16 starts during his college career. He had started all six games this season and ranked third on the team with 36 tackles.
During Saturday’s 49-14 loss, play was stopped for nearly an hour while Ulrich received medical attention. He was transported to a hospital, where he remained surrounded by family, teammates and friends in the days that followed.
Southern Nazarene announced his death Thursday. Coaches and university officials remembered Ulrich for his faith, work ethic, loyalty and quiet strength away from the field.
The university has made counseling and pastoral support available to students, faculty and staff. Southern Nazarene also canceled Saturday’s scheduled game against Southwestern Oklahoma State.
Back home, the loss is being felt deeply throughout Azle. The athletic department is considering ways to recognize Ulrich during the school’s upcoming homecoming game.
