The article, written in April, states that Schmitz’ father was instrumental in convincing his son not to continue playing.

At Schmitz’ high school, football players, whose nickname is the Ironmen, now wear helmets with sensors that alert coaches about players who have sustained hard hits in the head.

“He was a tough guy and he was smart as well,” said Aaron Corp, Richmond’s quarterback in 2010 and 2011. “The offensive line is not the easiest position to play, especially as a freshman. He picked up things really fast.”

Former Richmond coach Latrell Scott said he first met Schmitz at Don Bosco after his senior year there.

“I remember walking into the gym” and “my first impression of Kurt was in wrestling practice, how big he was, how aggressive he was,” said Scott, now Virginia State University’s coach.

Richard Muldrow, a Spider lineman in 2010, described Schmitz as “a great guy. And I would say very, very, very tough. Great teammate. Respected everybody and was respected by everybody. ... He’s definitely going to be missed.”