Clemson Student-Athlete Rouse Dies of Heart Attack

April 30, 2000

CLEMSON, SC – Clemson University student-athlete Brandon Rouse died suddenly Saturday evening of cardiac arrhythmia, according to Pickens County Deputy Coroner Phillip A. Snow.

Rouse, a rising red-shirt sophomore reserve defensive lineman from Darlington, SC, had not played in any Clemson games during his career. Rouse did however have two tackles in Clemson’s Spring Football game on April 15th.

“We are shocked and saddened by this sudden tragic news,” said university president Jim Barker. “We certainly want his family to know that the Clemson family holds them in our thoughts and prayers.”

Rouse and friends were at the Clemson Astro Theater Saturday night when he collapsed. He was then transported by Clemson EMS to Oconee Memorial Hospital where efforts to revive him failed.

“Our thoughts and prayers go out to the Rouse family,” said Head Football Coach Tommy Bowden. “The players and the coaching staff were all extremely touched by Brandon. I spoke to his family this afternoon and expressed our condolences. He will be missed by all.”

Dean of Students Joy Smith said a memorial service would be held on campus, with details to be finalized in the next few days.