UP men’s football player Yoro Sangare passed away at 22 years old on May 4. Teams from different schools have been paying their respects.
University of the Philippines football player Yoro Sangare passed away on Thursday, May 4.
His passing came a few hours before the UP men’s football team took to the field for their last shot at a final-four appearance in UAAP Season 85.
The UAAP and the UP College of Human Kinetics Dean, Francis Diaz, confirmed the death of Sangare. However, the cause of death has yet to be determined, as the autopsy is currently ongoing.
The 22-year-old from Mali was a third-year Physical Education student in UP and he played for the men’s football team. But, due to an injury that he sustained before the start of UAAP Season 85, he sat out the tournament.
“He was very driven, hardworking, and very kind. He was the kindest person I’ve ever met,” UP assistant coach Popoy Clarino shared. “He started training with us a year before he got in.”
Following the passing of their teammate, the UP men’s football team, along with opponents from FEU, took a moment of silence for Yoro Sangare before their game on Thursday. In the same manner, the DLSU and ADMU football teams carved out a moment to pay tribute to their fellow player.
Teams in other sports also paid their respects to the young athlete. A moment of silence was also done in the UAAP Women’s 3×3 Basketball Tournament before UST and NU contested the championship.
“Because of his dedication and hard work, we took a chance with him. He really wanted to bring his talent to UP. He will be missed but we are going to celebrate his life,” Clarino expressed.
Banner image courtesy of UAAP from the UPMFT.
Related Stories:
The Philippines Sweeps the East Asian Baseball Cup to Take Home Championship
3 Things Jax Peña Has Learned Playing Football on the Other Side of the World
7 of the Best Female Footballers Kicking Up the Women’s Stage