Heather Mangan

In their last appearance at Coughlin-Alumni Stadium, the Jackrabbit football team’s 12 seniors dedicated Saturday’s game to fallen teammate, Donny Parsons.

Before walking off the field for the last time, team members joined in prayer after the game around Parson’s number, 29, which was painted on the south 15-yardline.

Parsons, who would have been a senior running back this year, suffered a fatal asthma attack in September 2003. He was found in his Young Hall room hours after the team lost to Winona State University in Minnesota. The Omaha, Neb. native was a member of the Jack’s 2002 recruiting class and 19 at the time of his death.

Team member and friend Anthony Watson credits the team’s success this year to Parsons’ guidance from above.

“His spirit is going to live with us. We know he is still with us,” said the senior runningback.

Parsons’ death is constant reminder of how precious life is, Watson said.

The team has continued to honor Parson, by hanging his jersey in the locker room prior to home games.

#1.884046:4221351256.jpg:sdsuvswilliam06.jpg:Jackrabbit football players take time after their last home game of the season to recognize Donny Parsons, a would-be senior running back who died in September 2003.: