The university community mourns the loss of Ivan Garza, a former linebacker who wore the Hornets' colors from 2021 through 2023 and left a lasting impression on teammates and coaches alike.
A 2019 graduate of Robert F. Kennedy High School in Delano, California, Garza brought a relentless work ethic to the field, earning respect for his tenacity and dedication during his time with the Sacramento State football program.
His college trajectory was marked by the unusual 2020 season, which was ultimately canceled because of the COVID‑19 pandemic, a setback that many players, including Garza, felt deeply as they navigated an uncertain schedule and health restrictions.
University response
Sacramento State’s athletics department took to social media to share its condolences, extending sympathy to Garza’s family, friends and the broader football community while acknowledging the profound impact of his departure.
The statement, however, stopped short of revealing the circumstances surrounding his death, noting only that the cause had not been disclosed to the public.
Beyond the statistics, Garza’s story reflects the broader challenges faced by student‑athletes navigating a disrupted schedule, academic pressures and the emotional weight of a pandemic‑era season, leaving a legacy that will be remembered by those who knew him on and off the field.