According to a letter distributed to the school’s community this week, a 17-year-old Westlake High School athlete has passed away following breathing problems.
Football and lacrosse player Julius Poppinga, a junior at WHS, passed away on Tuesday after “having breathing issues,” according to the Los Angeles Times. Since the football team’s opening-day game on August 18, Poppinga reportedly has not taken part in any sports events with the school.
After having a serious asthma episode, he was scheduled to return home on Saturday, according to family.
Jasmine, Julius’ sister who is just 18 months older, stated, “I miss him so much. During her brother’s football season at WHS, she yelled at the games. “I am confident that he is currently keeping an eye on my family and I in California.”
She claims that despite Julius’ entire existence being centered around football, he was an even more unique individual whose kindness shone the clearest. Before she learned of his tragic death on Wednesday, the two had earlier spoken.
To find out the precise cause, the family is still awaiting the results of the autopsy.
There was no “red zone,” no hour-long warning prior to the disaster, and no warning that this might be your last conversation with Julius.
According to The Times, athletes were informed
He is a true warrior for the Westlake Warriors, so it kind of fits with the song’s theme of “As a Warrior,” Jasmine said, adding that her brother would have wanted the game to continue. “He is a kind, compassionate person, and I want him to be remembered for being that. Everyone at Westlake and throughout our entire community.
Brady Poppinga, a former NFL linebacker who won the Super Bowl XLV with the Green Bay Packers in 2011, is the father of Poppinga. After hearing the tragic news of his son’s passing, he posted something on X.
“I would like to thank EVERYONE for their unbelievably beautiful, sweet, and loving compassion sent our way,” the X post read. “Julius is a unique spirit who has influenced countless lives. Although we miss dad, we KNOW that we shall see him and be with him again because of the Savior
An image of a monument for Poppinga that was decked with a large number of flowers and candles was shared by Westlake High School.
A statement from the school’s football team supporting the Poppinga family was also shared on Instagram.
“The Westlake Football family would like to offer the Poppinga Family our sincere sympathies. The entire tribe will mourn Julius dearly because he was a beloved member of our team, according to the statement.
