Antonio Gates practices day after sister’s death
By Josh Sanchez
When you are a professional athlete, there are plenty of things that can happen to you on and off the field. As tough as it may be, you have to battle through those moments in order to do what you are paid to do.
More from Los Angeles Chargers
- Joe Burrow owes Justin Herbert a thank you note after new contract
- Chargers loosen grip on checkbook to pay Justin Herbert: Best memes and tweets
- Austin Ekeler leading RB revolt with Zoom meeting of biggest names
- Austin Ekeler warns NFL after dark day for running backs
- NFL’s running back revolt has begun after Saquon Barkley drama
For San Diego Chargers tight end Antonio Gates, one of those trying moments came this week and he has opened up about it all.
Earlier this week, Gates’ sister died of lupus.
The very next day, Gates suited up and took the field to practice at Chargers training camp.
Gates explained why he made the difficult decision to join his teammates despite the personal tragedy in his life.
“It puts me at ease, with all the things I’ve had to deal with from my family’s standpoint and a personal standpoint,” Gates said, via ESPN.com. “This is where I’m comfortable at — competing and doing the things I’m accustomed to doing playing football. And it takes a lot off of your mind.”
Gates’ sister, Pamela, was just 22 years old.
Our thoughts and prayers go out to Gates and his entire family as they deal with this difficult time.