Footballer tragically died in sleep from bizarre ‘sudden adult death syndrome’

A PROMISING young footballer who unexpectedly died in his sleep is believed to be a victim of Sudden Adult Death Syndrome.

   TRAGIC: James Colman had spent the weekend house hunting with his girlfriend

Tragic James Colman had spent the weekend house hunting with girlfriend Hannah after saving for a deposit before going home to bed.

But when the 22-year-old didn't get up for work last Monday morning, his parents Carol and John found he had died in his sleep.

A post-mortem has yet to be carried out but it is thought James may have died from the rare condition.

   PROMISE: Colman was reportedly an excellent footballer

Mum Carol, 61, said: "I want people to know that James did not suffer and passed away in his sleep.

"As a family we are totally devastated and his death has come as such a shock.

"He was such a fit young man. He loved football and had played since he was five-years-old.

"James was a wonderful son. He was loving, kind and generous with a great sense of humour.

"He was the sort of person who would do anything for anyone and his family were very important to him."

Sudden Adult Death Syndrome (SADS) is caused by a ventricular arrhythmia – a disturbance in the heart's rhythm.

It can strike at any age and affects those who are fit and athletic.

The promising amateur footballer, from Nailsea, Somerset, had three older sisters, and worked as an assistant graphic designer.

  STAR: Colman made 176 appearances for Nalsea United

He and Hannah, a primary school teacher who had been his girlfriend for six years, were excitedly looking for their first home together.

The news has shocked Nalsea United FC, who James played for 176 times.

Club chairman Spencer Lee said: "James was such a wonderful human being.

"A decent, unassuming lad who only ever wanted to give of his very best in whatever way he could.

"I personally had the privilege to manage him in many of the 176 games he played for our club and he was quite simply a manager's dream.

"He would approach every game with the same impressive level of commitment, concentration, determination, courage and focus.

"It was marvellous to witness his progress and development as he grew older with us, both as an individual and a footballer, to become such a treasured friend and member of our club.

"James was essentially a quiet and private individual, but he was hugely loved and respected by all at our club."