Hi everyone,

My name is Jesse Koritar, and I’m the Owner and Head Coach of the Rapid City War Eagles, a semi-pro football team built on grit, heart, and community. Today, I’m reaching out not just as a coach, but as a teammate and friend, to ask for your support for one of our own—Eddie Warren-Haywood.

This past Saturday, during the first part of the first quarter against the Mile High Eagles at home in Rapid City, Eddie suffered a scary injury where he initially had some paralysis in his lower body after a collision happened while making a defensive play. He was rushed to our local hospital and is very lucky! There was worsened stenosis of the cervical spine and has the majority of his mobility back. He will be going into surgery today or tomorrow for artificial disc replacement which should relieve the issues from his C3 down to T1. Most have trouble ever walking again but God has been on our side so far. This will help take pressure off his spinal cord and prevent, other issues in the future and potentially being paralyzed.

Eddie has been a huge asset on this team with not only being a long term veteran—he’s a leader on our defense, who put in a lot of extra work in this off season and really looked to bring up and motivate the new and younger guys on our team. His dedication is unmatched, and his absence on the field is deeply felt.

Unfortunately, due to the severity of his injury, Eddie will be out of work for an extended period, and the unexpected medical expenses are already piling up. As a team, we want to rally around him the same way he’s always shown up for us and provide assistance for his wife and two kids.

We’re raising funds to help cover:

Medical bills and rehabilitation costs

Lost wages while he’s unable to work

Support for his family during this difficult time

Every donation, no matter the size, will make a difference. If you can’t donate, please consider sharing this campaign to help us spread the word.

Let’s show Eddie the same strength and support he’s shown us on and off the field as well as we did earlier in the year with Jace. Together, we can help him heal and get back to doing what he loves.

Thank you for your kindness and generosity.

With gratitude,

Jesse Koritar

Head Coach, Rapid City War Eagles