UNI Honors the Legacy of Late Football Athlete Parker Sutherland

The University of Northern Iowa (UNI) is mourning the tragic loss of Parker Sutherland, a promising football athlete who passed away on Saturday morning. This loss has deeply impacted the Panther community and beyond.

Parker Sutherland: A Rising Star

Parker Sutherland hailed from Iowa City, Iowa. He was a freshman tight end for the UNI Panthers during the 2025 football season, appearing in four games. Prior to joining UNI, he made a name for himself in high school, earning second-team all-state honors as a senior at Iowa City High School. Sutherland also excelled in basketball and baseball.

Family and Community Support

Parker is survived by his parents, Adam and Jill Sutherland, and his sister, Georgia. In this challenging time, the family has requested privacy as they come to terms with their immense loss.

Reactions from UNI Athletics

UNI Director of Athletics, Megan Franklin, expressed her sorrow, stating, “It is a heartbreaking day for our Panther Athletics family. Parker embraced the opportunity to represent UNI through sport.” She emphasized the community’s unity during this difficult time.

Head coach Todd Stepsis also shared his condolences, highlighting Parker’s embodiment of team values. “No words can express my condolences to Adam, Jill, and Georgia. Parker was a remarkable person with talent and character that shone brightly on and off the field,” he commented.

Support Services Available

The entire UNI community has extended its deepest sympathies to Parker’s family and friends. In response to this tragedy, a variety of support services are being offered to students, faculty, and staff to help them cope with the loss.

Remembering Parker Sutherland

As UNI reflects on Parker’s contributions, his legacy as a dedicated athlete and beloved teammate will be cherished. The Panther family stands united, honoring his memory and the impact he had during his time at the university.