Ed Dawson, Cornell High School football coach, dies during game

The Cornell High School football community is mourning the death of head coach Ed Dawson, who suffered a medical emergency during a game against Rochester High School on Friday, October 23, 2026.

During the second quarter, Dawson informed an assistant coach that he was unwell and was advised to sit on the bench. According to Cornell athletic director Bill Sacco, the situation deteriorated rapidly, and Dawson stopped moving. Medical personnel administered CPR on the sideline before he was transported to a local hospital, where he was pronounced dead.

Cornell School District Superintendent Dr. Aaron Thomas described Dawson as an integral part of the district, stating the community is “heartbroken, crushed and in shock.” Dawson, 55, had served as Cornell’s head coach since 2011 and was credited with helping restore the school's football program. The game was halted with Cornell leading 16-6, and school officials are consulting with Dawson’s family regarding next steps for the team.