It’s been three weeks since a shooting in Havana, Florida, completely changed the trajectory of freshman linebacker Ethan Pritchard’s life. He is still hospitalized at Tallahassee Memorial. As per reports, he is currently in stable but critical condition in the ICU, according to FSU. Now, while the program is rallying around him, sending thoughts and prayers during this difficult time, HC Mike Norvell addressed the situation at his weekly press conference. “Tragic event for the young man,” stated Norvell, noting he visited Pritchard and his family at the hospital, and this heartfelt support of Norvell now moved FSU’s director to emotion.
Following the shooting, WESH’s Stewart Moore shared a heartfelt update. Ethan Pritchard’s father, Earl Pritchard, confirmed the unwavering support from FSU’s coaching staff. “Coach Mike Norvell has visited every single day. When the cameras are off, Coach still shows up. Something special,” he said. Then Earl Pritchard added that other coaches were present as well, with Coach Odell even calling during Moore’s visit. Here, Moore emphasized the unseen dedication of the Seminole family, stating, “We often cheer for teams out of loyalty, but we have no idea of the caliber of people who promise to look after players, and they’ve been there every step of the way,” he said. Now with the Noles family present, FSU director Devin Rispress lauded Norvell’s support.
On September 21, Devin Rispress praised the coach on X. “Norvell a real one 🫡,” he wrote. And it’s easy to see why. Mike Norvell has fostered a culture of heart and unity at FSU. That’s why this past weekend, the Noles honored freshman LB Ethan Pritchard. Although his father, Earl, watched from the sidelines as FSU faced East Texas A&M, the team’s tribute was heartfelt. At midfield for the coin toss, Earl Little Jr. carried Pritchard’s No. 35 jersey. Then, players sported No. 35 wristbands. And most intriguingly, DB Darrell Jackson Jr. wore a T-shirt featuring Ethan’s face. Even though Ethan is at the heart of the team, his absence on Saturdays is a huge setback for Norvell’s Seminoles.
ADVERTISEMENT
Article continues below this ad
During his senior year in 2024, Pritchard led Seminole High to a 10-2 record. And he racked up back-to-back regional finals. On top of that, he notched 39 tackles and seven TLFs in 9 games, standing out as a relentless playmaker. So, his talent and drive made it clear he was destined for the next level at FSU. But tragedy struck when Ethan Pritchard was driving his aunt and baby cousin home after the Alabama game. Although he was shot in a case of mistaken identity, in a swift response, authorities have made four arrests.
ADVERTISEMENT
Article continues below this ad
Breaking update in the Ethan Pritchard case
4 people have been arrested, according to FDLE Commissioner Mark Glass. Caron Miller, Jayden Bodison, Germany Atkins, and a minor now face legal action. Miller, Bodison, and the juvenile were charged with 3 counts of attempted murder, while Atkins was charged with a probation violation. Yet it’s not clear whether any of the accused have secured legal representation. Now, Pritchard missed FSU’s season opener, a 31-17 win over Bama, but his presence is deeply felt.
ADVERTISEMENT
Article continues below this ad
Coach Mike Norvell praised the linebacker’s passion and energy, saying, “I recruited him for years, got a chance to watch him grow. The way that he plays the game; it’s a passion, energy. He loves it, absolutely loves it. To know that right now that’s taken away from him in a senseless act … I do believe that God has his hand over Ethan and this football team and just all the relationships.” But the real headline came later.
Pritchard’s father attended FSU’s 77-3 rout of East Texas A&M, standing on the sideline. And then he joined the team in the locker room. Norvell called him “a wonderful man” and highlighted his commitment, stating, “He told me earlier this week, ‘I know where my boy wants to be, so I’m going to go stand in his place for him.’” From the heartfelt tributes on the field to the unwavering support of his coaches and teammates, it’s clear that the Seminole family stands united, carrying him in their hearts every Saturday.