Broncbuster football star Sean Callahan passes away

Garden City, KS-Garden City Community College football player Sean Callahan was found dead in Liberal, KS on Sunday. Details surrounding his death are unknown at this time. The Seward County Sheriff’s Department is currently investigating the matter.

“I’m very sad for Sean’s family, friends, teammates, our college, myself and anyone that had contact with Sean,” Broncbuster Coach Jeff Sims said in a statement. “He truly was growing and developing into a man with a bright future.”

Callahan teammates took to social media on Sunday to pay their respects:

Callahan was a major contributor on Garden City’s 2016 National Championship squad. He started all 11 games at offensive guard and was named a second-team All-Jayhawk performer.

“I believe in God’s plan, and I am very thankful that he blessed all of us with having Sean in our lives,” Sims said. “Sean will continue to be a source of inspiration of how you can develop yourself from a young person who struggled at times, to a strong, confident, college graduate, national champion, and most importantly: a great son to his family.”

Callahan graduated from Gardner-Edgerton High School where he was listed as one of the top players in Kansas as a senior. He was named to the All-Eastern Kansas first team as an offensive lineman while helping the Blazers to an 8-2 record and playoff appearance during his junior campaign. As a sophomore, Callahan made the Kansas all-underclassmen team.

“Sean was well respected and a tremendous student-athlete,” Garden City Community College President Dr. Herbert Swender said. “The entire family is devastated by this tragic loss.”

Callahan began his collegiate career at Highland in 2015. He started three games before leaving the program. He arrived in Garden City the following season and his impact was felt immediately. The sophomore helped pave the way to running back Tra Minter’s 1,200-yard season.

Callahan received his Associate’s Degree on Friday during commencement ceremonies. He held offers from South Alabama, Texas El Paso, University of Louisiana-Monroe and Southeast Missouri State.