A former University of Northern Colorado football player, Cristian Sarmento, died by suicide on Feb. 2 in Denver, with his family believing it was the result of a concussion-related disease from playing contact sports. Sarmento, who played for the Bears from 2005-08 and also participated in rugby, was an All-Big Sky Conference first-team selection as a senior in 2008. His family suspects he had chronic traumatic encephalopathy (CTE) due to his history of concussions and symptoms including depression and emotional processing difficulties.

Why It Matters

The story underscores the potential long-term impact of concussions and repetitive head trauma in contact sports, highlighting the need for increased awareness, prevention, and support for athletes who may be at risk of developing CTE.

By the Numbers
  • Cristian Sarmento was an All-Big Sky Conference first-team selection as a senior in 2008
  • CTE symptoms include memory loss, confusion, impaired judgment, and progressive dementia
State of Play
  • Cristian Sarmento's death has brought attention to the potential consequences of repetitive head trauma in sports
  • The family believes Sarmento's suicide was linked to the effects of CTE
What's Next

This tragic event may lead to increased advocacy for improved concussion protocols and support systems for athletes, as well as further research into the long-term effects of head injuries in sports.

Bottom Line

Cristian Sarmento's story emphasizes the critical need for ongoing efforts to address and mitigate the risks associated with repetitive head trauma in sports, including the development of better prevention strategies and support for affected individuals.