Recent grad dies in skateboarding accident

CLARKE COUNTY, Ga. — A recent high school graduate, who died in a skateboarding accident, will help save other lives.

Student-athlete Drew Swan was an organ donor, and doctors from around the country are flying in for his organs.

Drew spent a lot of time on the football field at Athens Academy. One of his biggest plays happened on the 8-yard line.

The school described it as "The Play of the Year."

“I've never been around an individual who's been so internally motivated,” Athens Academy head football coach Josh Alexander said of Swan.

The school said Swan fell off his skateboard on Saturday while he was riding downhill at Lake Oconee.

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He died from his head injuries on Monday afternoon.

“Shock, disbelief and sadness,” friend Jacob Hudson said. “The past 24 hours has been some of the hardest I’ve ever been through.”

Hudson grew up with Swan. They played football together, and graduated from Athens Academy last month.

“Who knows when I'll be able to come to full acceptance with it,” Hudson said. “But all we can do is celebrate the time we had with him.”

Swan's family will donate his organs to save other lives. Channel 2's Chris Jose was told it's what Drew wanted.

“I can't tell you enough about Drew Swan,” Hudson said. “How he cared for people. The way he cared for his sister Sam, the way he cared for his mom and brother Matt.”

The team will dedicate next season to No. 24. He'll be remembered for his big plays and the impact he had on the school.

In the last few months Swan signed with Rhodes College to run track. He also finished second at the state championship.

Cox Media Group