A 17‑year‑old quarterback from Alma Center, Wisconsin, Adam Massman, died Thursday night after sustaining an injury on the football field, a loss that has shaken his school and the surrounding community.
A community in mourning
Massman, a senior at Lincoln High School, was known for his dual‑sport talent, excelling on the gridiron as a quarterback and defensive back and also competing in basketball and baseball. In the 2025 season he amassed 858 passing yards and 10 touchdowns, added 280 rushing yards and three scores, and finished the year with 1,138 total yards.
His athletic prowess was matched by academic recognition; he earned a spot on the Wisconsin Basketball Coaches Association’s 2025 Boys Basketball Academic All‑State list, underscoring his commitment both on the court and in the classroom.
Teammates honored his memory by transforming his reserved parking space into a tribute, painting the spot with the letters “LLA” for “Long Live Adam” and surrounding it with images of his family’s cattle operation and the tire tracks of his truck, a visual reminder of the life he led.
Megan Steussel, a close friend, described Massman as “a friend, fierce competitor, and someone who followed his passions,” adding that his positive impact resonated throughout the district and urging families to tell their children they are loved and valued.
The ripple of grief extends beyond the field; Massman’s mother works as an elementary school counselor, and several relatives serve on the school board, embedding the teenager deeply within the fabric of Lincoln. His involvement in clubs, student activities, and community events left a void that will be felt for years to come.