A shocking loss | by Pat

The football game on Saturday was preceded by the horrible news of the sudden death of Ryan Shay, a former Notre Dame All-American in track and cross-country and current Olympic hopeful in the marathon. Shay, 28, died while competing in the U.S. Olympic marathon trials in New York City.

Und.com has a wonderful tribute to Shay, noting his multitude of accomplishments both on the field (9 time All-American, ND's first individual track event national champion since 1952) and off (Academic All-American). It also includes many personal anecdotes about one of the best athletes to ever wear the Blue and Gold.

There is also a touching article in the New York Times about Shay, his family, and his hometown of Central Lake, Michigan.

Please make sure to read both of these tributes to an extremely impressive and inspirational individual and offer up your prayers to the Shay family.

Rest in peace Ryan.