GLENDALE, AZ (3TV/CBS 5) — A West Valley football community is reeling after losing one of its few days before the start of the school year. César Vázquez had already started summer training with Peoria Centennial. Vazquez’s family had moved from Peoria to Glendale during his high school career, so he stayed in Centennial even though they now live in Glendale. However, he died unexpectedly in his sleep earlier this week.

At 6′3, 270 pounds, there was a lot to love about Cesar Vázquez. But Vázquez’s mother, Brenda Gil, says that as big a presence as he was on the soccer field, César had an even bigger heart. “He was very charismatic and everyone loved him!” Gil said. “He was very happy all the time. He would always cooperate with whatever you did. And he listened to everything.”

Including comments from coaches that Vázquez could have a future in soccer. “This was his dream,” Gil said. “To play in college.”

And after that? Maybe the NFL. But earlier this week, when Vazquez went to bed, he never woke up. “We started moving him and shaking him. We saw he was purple and we called the ambulance,” said Gil. “And when they came they said he was dead and there was nothing more they could do.”

Vazquez had no history of any serious health problems. He didn’t do drugs. As a result, his death has left his family with many questions. “We have no idea what happened.” Gil said.

But while the Vazquez family waits for answers, they’ve taken solace in the response from both Vazquez’s second family in Peoria Centennial and strangers who didn’t even know him. “Seeing all the love that so many people had for him, it made me even more proud,” Gil said.

The pain is still fresh for Gil and the rest of the family. What’s next? They are not sure. But Gil knows that talking about Vázquez’s death, as difficult as it is, is necessary. “I told him I’ll do this for you,” Gil said. “You’re going to give me the strength to do this interview because he knew he wanted to be famous. That’s what he said. I’m going to be famous. So this is for him.”

A memorial service is planned for Vazquez next Saturday at 1:00 PM at West Resthaven Funeral Home (6450 W. Northern Avenue) in Glendale. Everyone is welcome to attend. A GoFundMe has also been set up to help the Vázquez family with funeral and other expenses. Here is a link to donate.

https://sportsnews7.com/2022/08/07/glendale-family-remembers-football-player-who-died-unexpectedly-in-his-sleep/