Just one day before his tragic death, 10-year-old Bryson Funk stood on the pitcher’s mound and delivered his final pitch, striking out the last batter and winning the championship for his little league team in Dauphin, Pennsylvania.
On June 11, the Linglestown Colts clinched the division championship, thanks to 10-year-old Bryson Funk, who pitched the final three innings and struck out the last batter – sending fans into a frenzy of excitement.
“He would literally, like, do like a backflip to make a play or, like, slide in the muddy dirt, for like, act like it’s nothing. That’s what kind of player he kinda was,” Bryson’s best friend and fellow ball player, Elias Vilfort, 9, told CBS 21. “He was very funny, very funny. He was always in the game…he was just so funny. I’m still just shocked that this happened…I never even thought of this happening.”
‘What no parent should ever endure’
Less than 24 hours after Bryson’s impressive performance on the field, the star pitcher’s yellow and black Colts jersey was retired forever.
“The next morning, my mom got a call saying that [Bryson] was in the hospital,” Elias said. “…He was part of our family, too. It made us feel like he was a part of two families.”
According to a GoFundMe campaign organized by Nicki Brantner for the grieving family, Bryson died “from an unexpected cardiac arrest brought on by myocarditis – an inflammation of the heart muscle that can lead to sudden heart failure, especially in young athletes.”
“Bryson passed away [June 12]. Something no one could have ever imagined happening to such a vibrant, active guy. He had an amazing championship win [June 11]. Pitching the last three innings and struck out the last batter for the win! Bryson was quite the athlete,” Brantner explains on the fundraising page that as of June 23 raised more than 47,500 of its $50,000 goal. “His parents are now facing what no parent should ever endure.”
‘Leading cause of death in young athletes’
Myocarditis in children is a rare condition that involves inflammation of the heart muscle, known as the myocardium – the vital muscle responsible for pumping blood throughout the body.
According to health experts, it’s a silent and often unpredictable condition –frequently caused by viral infections – that can develop without obvious symptoms until it’s too late. In rare cases, it can lead to sudden cardiac arrest, particularly during physical activity when the heart is under stress.
“Sudden cardiac arrest is the leading cause of death in young athletes. Estimates vary, but some reports suggest that about 1 in 50,000 to 1 in 80,000 young athletes die of sudden cardiac death each year,” writes the Mayo Clinic.
Pediatric cardiologists emphasize the importance of early detection and regular check-ups, especially for children with a history of cardiac abnormalities – even if they appear healthy and strong, like Bryson.
CBS 21 reports that the little athlete was born with coarctation of the aorta and a deformed bicuspid aortic valve, but his family said that doctors don’t believe it had anything to do with his death.
‘Deep sorrow’
Meanwhile, across the community, Bryson’s story has shaken hearts and rallied support from people who are sharing stories online of a boy known for his bright smile and unwavering dedication.
“Yesterday, our baseball family lost a shining light far too soon. Bryson Funk, a vibrant and talented All-Star, passed away suddenly, leaving our community in deep sorrow. He brought energy, kindness, and a true love for the game to every field he stepped on,” the Linglestown Baseball Association writes in a Facebook tribute. “Bryson wasn’t just an incredible athlete – he was a teammate, a friend, and a joy to coach. His hustle and his heart will be remembered by everyone who had the privilege of knowing him.”
717 Athletics, a competitive cheer organization in central Pennsylvania, shared: “Bryson brought so much joy, laughter, and light into the lives of all who knew him. His time with us was far too short, but the love he gave and the memories he created will forever live on in our hearts.”
‘Heartbroken and devastated’
Elias’ mother, Amanda Vilfort, shared an adorable photo of the two boys in their ball jerseys, alongside a heartbreaking message: “Elias suddenly lost his best friend yesterday. We are heartbroken and devastated…I pray for comfort for all who are grieving the loss of Bryson. He will be missed beyond belief.”
Responding to the mom’s Facebook post, Bryson’s grieving father Todd writes, “I’ve lost my only son, my throwing buddy. If Elias ever wants to come down, he’s always welcome to come down throw the baseball around and talk about Bryson.”
“It would help us all [heal],” he added in a separate message.
Bryson’s final moments on the mound represents the best of youth sports and his sudden passing reminds us all of how fragile life can be, even for those who seem invincible.
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