VANCOUVER, Wash. — The community of Skyview High School is coming together in grief after the unexpected passing of a student athlete, William “Liam” Sloan. Liam, a junior and a dedicated member of the football team, died in his sleep from what has been described as natural causes.
Skyview Principal Andy Meyer announced the tragic news to families in a heartfelt message on Friday. “He was a junior this year and a valued member of our football team and learning community,” Meyer said. “He was a great friend, teammate, and classmate to all who knew him and will be deeply missed.”
In light of this loss, the school has made arrangements to offer counseling support for both students and staff. Meyer encouraged anyone who needs to talk to visit the career center or seek out a trusted adult. “Following a tragedy, it’s expected that our students may experience signs of grief. This may look like tearfulness, shock, withdrawal, and perhaps anger,” he added.
In a solemn tribute, the Skyview football team posted on social media that they’ve lost one of their brothers. As they prepare to take the field against Richland High School at 4 p.m. on Saturday, they plan to honor Liam with a moment of silence. Team members expressed that the loss has left them in shock and sadness. “It felt like a bad dream,” said Aiden Sederstrom, who was close to Liam. “I remember showing it to my dad, and he sat there in silence for a long time.”
Friends and teammates remembered Liam as a hardworking student and loyal friend who brought joy and excitement to their practices. Doogie Poindexter, a senior on the team, said, “He would always show excitement, big smile. I would throw a touchdown, and he’d come up and just give me a big hug.”
About 200 people from the Vancouver community gathered for a candlelight vigil on Friday night to pay their respects. Teammates vowed to channel Liam’s spirit and intensity into their performance for the rest of the season. “The intensity that he put in on an everyday basis will hopefully push our team to perform better throughout the year,” said Rex Allinger, another teammate.
As the Skyview football team prepares for their game, there is a shared sense of emptiness among players and friends. “It won’t ever feel the same, it won’t ever feel right. It just feels like we’re going to miss the heart and soul of our football team,” Sederstrom reflected. The Skyview community is mourning a talented young man whose presence will be deeply missed.
