Editor's note: Following the death of Johnie Kirton, the San Jose SaberCats distributed the following press release. The team canceled practice on Tuesday.
Official press release
SAN JOSE -- The San Jose SaberCats are sad to announce the passing of fullback Johnie Kirton. Johnie passed away Monday, May 28 in Santa Clara.
"It is with great shock and sadness that we confirm that Johnie Kirton has passed away," said OwnerHead Coach Darren Arbet. "He was such a great kid, and in the short time he was in San Jose he was such a valued member of our organizations family. Johnie was a great team guy and hard-nosed player, and he will be sorely missed. Our thoughts and prayers go out to Johnies family in this difficult time."
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SaberCats players will honor the memory of Johnie Kirton by wearing stickers on their helmets with his number 37 in their game this Saturday against the Milwaukee Mustangs.