American Heritage-Delray coach Sheridan dies at 45
American HeritageDelray coach Brian Sheridan has died at the age of 45, according to his alma mater, Rutgers University, and the school’s Twitter account.
“It is with very heavy hearts that we have to announce the passing of our head football coach, Brian Sheridan,” American Heritagesaid in a statement. “He quietly and courageously fought an illness for several months.
“He truly lovedeachand every one of his students and players. He was an inspiration to the young people heworked with, always impressing upon them the importance of academics and athletics. He will be remembered for his strength and compassion.
“The entire American Heritage family is grieving this loss. Coach Sheridan will be greatly missedby all of us.”
Sheridan was in his first season as the Stallions’ coach, having been promoted from defensive coordinator in December. He was absent from Friday’s season-opener againstFort Myers BishopVerot.
Before coaching at American Heritage-Delray, he spent time as the defensive coordinator at Chaminade-Madonna and University School. He was the head coach at Union High in New Jersey from 2007-11, and he also coached at Widener University and Kean University.
Sheridanwas a star linebacker at Rutgers, racking up 389 tackles over four seasons with the Scarlet Knights.
He still holds the Rutgers record with161 tackles in a single season, which he set in 1997.
Condolences and memories started flooding social media onTuesday evening. American HeritageDelray athletic director Laney Stearns could not be reached Tuesday night.
“Our Prayers go out to theFamilyof@CoachBSheridan,” said Florida Atlantic University football coach Willie Taggart, whose son Jackson plays for American HeritageDelray. “He was a positive light in so many lives, and we will miss him dearly. Thank you Coach Sheridan.”
“You’ll be greatly missed coach,” American Heritagejunior K.J. Stewart wrote on Twitter. “Forever in our hearts man for real ! #SHERIDANSTRONG”
“Very tough news hearing the passing of Coach Sheridan, an amazing coach, and an even BETTER person,” former Chaminade-Madonna quarterbackHenry Cololbi wrote. “Your continuous love and support to myself and your players will always be remembered. Your passion for the game is unmatched. Love you always coach.”
American HeritageDelray assistant head coach NickMartinez, who coached the team in its season opener on Friday, posted a long message on his Twitter account.
“My brother, you fought everyday, showedupevery day, gave your all every day,” Martinez wrote. “Thank you for that. As a coach, you pushed me to be better. You taught me how to be a better coach, you raised the level of every coach on staff every single day, Thank you for that. As a man, you were generous, authentic, caring, but tough as hell and not afraid to hold another man accountable when needed. I learned this from you. Thank you for that.
“As a friend, we laughed, we talked, we shared vision, and we loved to Friday nights! I will keep this all withmeas long as I live, that is my promise. #ForSheridan.”