Suffolk Reporter

The William Floyd School District has announced the passing of boys' varsity assistant basketball coach Darrell Sumpter, who died in a motor vehicle accident on Sunrise Highway. Coach Sumpter was a graduate of William Floyd and a dedicated community member. He served as an assistant coach for the boys' varsity basketball team since 2015 and volunteered with youth programs for many years prior.

Coach Sumpter played a significant role in establishing the WFSD youth basketball program and booster club, positively impacting numerous student-athletes in the community. Following his death, colleagues, coaches, and social workers met with both boys' and girls' teams to share the news. Grief counselors are available for students who need support during this time.

Members of the school community have extended their condolences to the Sumpter family and will continue to provide assistance as needed. The district expressed its sympathies: "Our thoughts and prayers are with Mr. Sumpter’s family, friends, and all of the student-athletes who loved and cared for him."

A tribute titled "The Muscle Behind the Hustle" by P.J. Balzer is available in the Messenger Papers, celebrating Coach Darrell's dedication to mentoring youth.

In light of this tragedy, scheduled activities have been affected. The William Floyd Boys’ Basketball Booster Club youth basketball event set for December 14 has been canceled, while varsity and junior varsity games planned for that day have been postponed.