FULTON, Miss. – The ICC family is mourning the loss of freshman football player Zion Ford over the weekend.

"Our hearts go out to Zion's family," said an emotional Sean Cannon, head coach of the ICC football team. "Not only was Zion a great teammate, he was a great kid away from the game of football. Like everyone that knew him, we are hurting and ask that everyone keep his family in their prayers during this difficult time."

Ford, 19, a graduate of Caledonia High School, was remembered for his smile, hard work ethic, and desire to do whatever he could to help the team and his teammates both on and off the field, including his willingness to switch from running back to defensive back during the season due to numerous injuries in the Indians' secondary.

"On behalf of our administration, coaches and student-athletes, we want to express our condolences to Zion's family and friends," said ICC president Dr. Jay Allen. "We are working with our team and coaches to help them through this unfortunate process. Zion had an obvious impact on his teammates and the institution. The team and coaching staff are brokenhearted."

At this time, the college cannot currently provide any more details or information on Ford's passing. Grief counseling is available on campus to any students, faculty and staff members.

"We ask everyone to please respect the privacy of the Ford family along with our football family at this time as we begin the healing process," Dr. Allen.

A prayer vigil has been planned for Tuesday, February 13 at 6:30 p.m. at the Crane Pavilion located near the Student Activities building on the Fulton campus.