The Azle Hornets line up for the anthem before a game against Grapevine on Aug. 30, 2019, in Azle.
David Kent
Special to the Star-Telegram
The Azle community is rallying behind former Hornet Tyler Ulrich, who was critically injured Saturday while playing football for Southern Nazarene University in an away game against Ouachita Baptist University in Arkansas.
After this story was published, his family announced that Ulrich died Thursday.
Southern Nazarene confirmed to Star-Telegram media partner WFAA that Ulrich, 21, suffered a traumatic injury and was in critical condition following the incident. The game was delayed for 45 minutes while he received medical attention on the field.
Ulrich was a sophomore safety listed at 5-foot-10, 200 pounds.
A GoFundMe was started to raise money for the Ulrich family, and it has received over $10,000.
Part of the fundraiser’s description reads:
“This gofundme is simply one way for us to come together and allow them to focus on each other and the moments that matter most. If there was ever a time for a community to come together, it’s now. Every donation, no matter the amount, will allow Tyler’s loved ones to focus on what matters most — being together and being by his side.
“And more than anything, we ask you to pray. Pray for Tyler. Pray for his family. Pray for the medical team caring for him. Pray for strength, comfort, peace, and God’s presence in every moment ahead.”
Southern Nazarene, located in Bethany, Oklahoma, plays in the Great American Conference in NCAA Division II.
This story was originally published October 15, 2026 at 10:39 AM.
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Fort Worth Star-Telegram
Charles Baggarly is a high school sports editor and reporter for the Fort Worth Star Telegram. He graduated from TCU in 2023 with a bachelor’s degree in journalism and served as TCU 360’s sports editor. Connect with Charles on Twitter or via email.