An assistant freshman football coach at Penn Trafford died suddenly over the weekend.
TJ Detruf, a 2002 graduate of Jeannette and former football captain for the Jayhawks, died on Saturday inside his home in Hempfield Township.
Jeannette Head Coach Tommy Paulone Jr. announced the news early Monday morning on social media.
The 41-year-old was Jeannette’s starting quarterback and “an intricate part of the 2001 Century Conference Championship Team.”
In addition to his past three seasons coaching at Penn Trafford, Detruf was a QB Coach, offensive coordinator and middle school head coach at Jeannette.
“Coach TJ has been an integral part of our football family, and his contributions have left an indelible mark on all of us,” P-T Football said in a statement. “His dedication, passion, and unwavering support for our players have been truly inspiring, and his absence will be deeply felt by everyone who had the privilege of knowing him.”
Penn Trafford’s Football Boosters have set up a fundraiser to help support Detruf’s wife and his son.
Scan the QR code before to donate.
Detruf’s son, Dom Detruf, is currently Hempfield's quarterback.
Funeral and additional details were not immediately released.