Thomas Cole Retires From Football After Nearly Losing His Life to THIS [DETAILS]

Thomas Cole is letting go of football after years of playing the sport.

The University of California, Los Angeles football team lost its offensive lineman after Cole decided to let go of his football dreams following an attempted suicide.

He formally announced his decision on Twitter on Saturday, saying that he realized that there is more to life than playing football.

"I haven't been present ... This is because at the start of 2022 I made an attempt to take my own life. At first I was regretful that I survived my attempt, but thankfully due to the people at the UCLA hospital, Paradigm residential treatment, and my therapist Meg, I have come to a much brighter outlook for my own future," he said.

Cole went through deep consideration before deciding that football was not truly helpful to his mental health. Despite leaving the team, he clarified that he gained unmatched love and support from his team, especially Benjamin Roy, Garrett DiGiorgio, Taka Mahe, and Noah Pulealii.

He also mentioned his coaches, who brought a positive impact on his life.

In the end, he reminded everyone who is also struggling that they are not alone. He also told them that it is okay to ask for help.

After Cole shared the statement, his fans offered support and sent him friendly messages amid his health issues.

One said, "Thomas Cole...it takes courage to share this. Sending you prayers for continued strength. Keep your circle filled with people that will lift you up. Bruin forever."

Thomas Cole's Short-Lived Football Career

Cole's football journey with UCLA started he enrolled at the university in January 2021. He waited until the Bruins' 2021 fall season before he had playing time.

In high school, he was named a significant college football prospect after joining the Cal-Hi Sports All-State first team for juniors in 2019 and the All-Pac-4 first team.

The UCLA Athletics spokesperson declined requests for comment. It just cited the Family Education Rights and Privacy Act, which prohibits the discussion of the health of students.

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But Cole's case was not the first one on the team.

Last month, Bruins' defensive back Martell Irby also announced retirement due to mental health struggles.

Ohio State University football player Harry Miller retired, as well, due to similar mental health issues that led him to attempt to claim his own life.

Meanwhile, several college student-athletes across the US committed suicide in the past months, including Katie Meyer, Sarah Shulze, Lauren Bernett, and Arlana Miller.

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