Seventeen-year-old Darius “Dee” Hartshorne, a Sisler Spartans football player who suffered a serious neck injury during a high school game earlier this month, has died.
“Our hearts are heavy today, but there is comfort in knowing that Dee is no longer suffering,” wrote Stephanie Ciaralli, who was raising Hartshorne, in an emotional Facebook post early Thursday.
Hartshorne was injured on Oct. 17 while returning the opening kickoff in a game against the Tec Voc Hornets. The Grade 12 student was rushed to hospital, where he remained in critical condition for nearly two weeks.
Ciaralli described Hartshorne as “the son I chose to love every single day.”
“Though your time here was far too short, the love you gave will live on in all of us,” she said.
Beloved by Teammates and Coaches
Hartshorne’s coach, Sean Esselmont, called him “one of the most genuine and wonderful young men” he’d ever coached.
The Spartans have since honoured Hartshorne by displaying his jersey number, 57, on helmets and sidelines.
Community and Leaders Mourn Loss
Matt Henderson, superintendent of the Winnipeg School Division, said the division is offering support to students, staff, and Hartshorne’s family.
“It’s tragic… we want to support kids, staff, and the family in any way possible.”
At the Manitoba Legislature, PC Leader Obby Khan, a former CFL player, opened question period with condolences.
“Sad to see a life taken so soon,” Khan said. “Our thoughts and prayers are with his family, teammates, and classmates.”
Premier Wab Kinew also paid tribute, calling the loss deeply felt by Manitobans.
“When you have something like this, it really pulls at the heartstrings,” he said.
Coun. Vivian Santos, who represents the area where Sisler High School is located, described Hartshorne as a teen known for his “kindness, strength, and compassion.”
Hartshorne turned 17 just five days ago while in hospital.
His community now mourns a life remembered for its warmth, courage, and love of the game.
