The Hebron High School baseball community is mourning the sudden and unexpected death of one of their players, JJ Hatcher, who passed away on Sunday, December 18, 2022. The sophomore student was a rising star in the sport, playing for the Hebron Hawks and other teams. His death has shocked and saddened his family, friends, coaches, teammates, and fans, who have paid tribute to him on social media and in person.
A Statement from the Hebron Hawks Baseball Coach
The news of JJ Hatcher’s death was confirmed by the Hebron Hawks Baseball coach, Steve Stone, who shared a statement on Twitter on behalf of the team. He wrote:
Our baseball family has been impacted by the tragic loss of one of our players. Sophomore, JJ Hatcher, died unexpectedly late yesterday. Although many of our players may already have this information as well as additional details, we have very little details and we want to respect the families’ wishes for privacy at this time.
He added that the team would update with another statement once they had more information, and asked everyone to keep JJ’s family in their prayers. According to HITC, the cause of death has not been announced yet.
A Talented and Joyful Athlete
JJ Hatcher was a talented and versatile athlete, who excelled in both baseball and football. He played as a wide receiver for the Hebron High School football team, and scored a touchdown in a game against Coppell High School in October 2022. He also played baseball for the Hebron Hawks, as well as for 5 Star Performance and Texas Scrappers. He was a promising player who had a bright future ahead of him.
According to The SportsGrail, JJ was also a joyful person who loved what he did. His former coach, Ian Spaight, shared a picture of him smiling on the field and wrote:
My heart hurts today. Devastating to hear this kind of news. Love this picture because it shows how he always had joy in everything he did. I was blessed to be able to coach him. Prayers for the Hatcher family.
Tributes from the Baseball World and Beyond
JJ Hatcher’s death has touched many people in the baseball world and beyond, who have expressed their condolences and admiration for him. Sticks Baseball, a youth baseball organization, called him a “great player, wonderful person, and someone who was loved by all of his coaches and teammates.” Blake Bowling, another coach who worked with him, thanked him for the impact he had on his life and called him his hero.
Many others also shared their memories and messages of support for JJ and his family, including his classmates, friends, teachers, and fans. A vigil was held in his memory at the Hebron High School on Wednesday, December 21, 2022. His funeral will be on Friday, December 22, 2022, according to MSN.
JJ Hatcher was a son of former Cowboys defensive end Jason Hatcher, who played for the NFL team from 2006 to 2013. He also has a younger brother, Jace, who plays football and basketball. The Hatcher family has not made any public statement about JJ’s death yet, but they have received an outpouring of love and sympathy from the community.
JJ Hatcher Hebron death is a tragic loss for the baseball community and everyone who knew him. He will be remembered as a talented, joyful, and beloved young man who had a passion for sports and life. May he rest in peace.
