CBS Atlanta 46Locust Grove football player dies after collapsing at practice

A Henry County high school football player who collapsed Monday after practice has died.

Locust Grove student, 16-year-old Forest Jones, was taking part in a voluntary workout session when something went wrong.

"He was walking back after the workout outside. He was going to the locker room when he collapsed, stood back up and collapsed again," said J.D. Hardin, a spokesperson for the school district

Paramedics were called to the scene and Jones was rushed to the hospital in critical condition. The school district said the incident was an unfortunate and unpredictable event.

His father, Glenn Jones, says his son "pushed himself too hard" and doctors told him the collapse was heat-related.

Glenn Jones said his son wanted to be a professional football player since he was 10 years old, and he was working hard to try and achieve his goal.

"He wanted to do it for me, so that when I got older he could take care of me," he told The Atlanta Journal-Constitution.

CBS Atlanta reporter Bernard Watson asked Hardin about the rules governing when athletes can practice outside in the heat.

"There are a lot of different criteria that's involved. It's kind of on a grading scale so to speak and if it surpasses a certain threshold, then they can't practice," said Hardin. "No new policies will be implemented. This is an isolated incident, thousands of kids participate in sports across the state every single day. Our coaches are very cognizant of their players. They know it is hot outside and they have certain guidelines and regulations as set forth and there are plenty of water breaks and plenty of hydration opportunities for the students."

Jones' father sought to warn other athletes about the danger posed by this year's scorching temperatures.  

"I just want to get a message to all these kids out there that your body tells you when it needs to rest," he said. "Listen to your body, tell your coaches, tell your parents."

Friends set up a Facebook Memorial Page to remember him.

Here a few responses from school officials:

 Clint Satterfield, Head Football Coach, Locust Grove HS Wildcats –

"Our hearts are heavy for our fallen teammate.  We will miss the spirit and heart that he brought to our team.  Our sincerest appreciation is extended to those who have been praying for his family and his football family.  The team will be dedicating the season to his honor and memory, and we will be wearing decals on the back of our helmets all season long in honor of him."

Robyn Mullis, Principal, Locust Grove High School –

"We appreciate all the thoughts and prayers of those contacting us today to show their support.  We are deeply saddened as a school family and continue to lift the family up through prayer"

Dr. Ethan Hildreth, Superintendent, Henry County Schools –

"Our thoughts and prayers are with the family during this most difficult time.  We are concerned, too, about the school community, friends and teachers, and provide counseling support to help them with this loss."

Copyright 2011 WGCL-TV. All rights reserved.