By Susan Dickson
Staff Writer

Atlas Fraley, a star football player and a rising senior at Chapel Hill High School, died Tuesday in his home.

According to Chapel Hill-Carrboro City Schools officials, the cause of death has not yet been determined, but several news reports have said his death was caused by an asthma attack.

Fraley, who was both an offensive and defensive lineman for the Tigers, participated in two scrimmages at Middle Creek High School in Cary earlier on Tuesday.

“We extend our deepest sympathies to the Fraley family during this most difficult time,” Superintendent Neil Pedersen said in a press release. “Our staff stands ready to support the students and families who knew and loved Atlas.”

Chapel Hill High Principal Jacqueline Boyd Ellis notified parents of Fraley’s death via email on Wednesday. Counseling support is being made available at Chapel Hill High and Carrboro High, where many former Chapel Hill High students were redistricted last year.

The Chapel Hill High coaching staff met with players and parents on Wednesday. Practice on Wednesday and a Friday scrimmage with Cedar Ridge High School were canceled.

According to espn.com, Fraley was expected to play football at a Division 1 NCAA school and was considering N.C. State, Wake Forest, Hampton, Georgia Tech and Louisville.

Fraley’s mother, Malinda Fraley, coaches cheerleading at Chapel Hill High.

According to his player profile on Trupreps.com, Fraley’s biggest role model was his mother, and his father taught him how to play football when he was nine years old. He wanted to major in chemical engineering in college.