Spencer Hospital spokeswoman Tia Manwarren said Roberts died Saturday night at the hospital. No other details surrounding his death have been revealed in media reports as of Sunday evening.
The 6'4" Roberts, who first took up wrestling in seventh grade, placed eighth at the Class 2A Iowa state wrestling tournament last year at 220 pounds, his first appearance at the championships. This year, Roberts ranked fifth in his weight class in Class 3A (Spencer High has moved up a class). In addition to wrestling, Roberts played offensive and defensive lineman for the Spencer Tailtwisters. Media reports indicate he had planned to wrestle and play football at Iowa Central Community College in Fort Dodge next fall.
Here is the text of a message posted at the Spencer Public Schools Facebook page Sunday morning:
Students, Parents, and Staff of Spencer High School,
Last night at the Spencer Invitational Wrestling Tournament, Austin Roberts collapsed on the wrestling mat and was taken to the Spencer Hospital. Tragically, Austin has passed away.
This is a time for grieving and providing support for Austin's family, the wrestling team family, our school system, and the entire community of Spencer.
The Spencer High School will be open this morning beginning at 10:00 a.m. for grief counseling for any and all who need support. Please gather in the student center. This is also a place for our students, families, and staff to gather to support each other.
Please keep Austin, his family, and the Spencer Schools Family in your thoughts and prayers.
With deep sympathy,
Terry Hemann, Superintendent of Schools
Grief counselors were stationed at the high school Sunday for students. Classes will take place as scheduled Monday, Dec. 21.
Funeral arrangements have yet to be made public. However, a GoFundMe.com page has been established to help the family with funeral expenses. As of Sunday evening, $14,595 had been raised, exceeding the $10,000 goal.
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