Sterling Lewis, who played linebacker for the UA football team under Mike Stoops in 2008 and 2009, died Wednesday after being hospitalized for valley fever, a fungal infection in the lungs. He was 32.
“The Arizona Football Family is deeply saddened by the passing of Sterling Lewis. The entire football program would like to extend our deepest sympathies to Sterling’s family and friends," Arizona head coach Kevin Sumlin said. "His contagious passion, energy and enthusiasm will be missed.”
Lewis' head coach at Copperas Cove (Texas) High School, Jack Welch, shared the news via Twitter.
"Some things I'll never understand, and this one really hurts," former Wildcat Earl Mitchell said on social media. "Thank you for all the laughs and good times. Rest easy bro."
UA linebacker Sterling Lewis poses on August 5, 2009.
Lewis contributed 98 tackles, three sacks and an interception in two seasons for UA teams that went to the Las Vegas Bowl and Holiday Bowl. Lewis, a transfer from Blinn College in Texas, led the Wildcats in tackles through the first two games of the 2008 season. He wore No. 52 as a tribute to former Baltimore Ravens star Ray Lewis.
"He has a lot of enthusiasm. He's a good leader. He leads by example, and his work ethic's incredible," Arizona linebackers coach Tim Kish said then. "He's a lot of fun to be around. He has tremendous passion for the game. I never have to worry about his attitude coming out on the field every day."
A GoFundMe page was created for Lewis and his family when he was hospitalized three weeks ago. As of Wednesday night, it had raised more than $13,000. Click here for more.
Lewis is survived by his wife, Ashley, and their two boys.
