JACKSONVILLE, Fla. -- A football team made up of children was hit by an unthinkable loss on Saturday when one teammate died after collapsing on the field.

Organizers of the Normandy Athletic Association Pop Warner league said 12-year-old Rashad Wallace died during a light morning practice on a field just off Normandy Boulevard.

It was just the second practice of the year for league. Channel 4 learned it was the first time Wallace had played at the park.

On Monday evening, dozens of players and parents gathered on the same field for a meeting to talk about Wallace and what happened.

"It's terrible. It breaks your heart," said Ron Jeffords, who has been a part of the athletic association for nearly 40 years. "I know for people here at the park it's been rough, especially the coaches on that team. It's just devastating. To me, it's hard enough and I didn't know the kid personally."

He said he was nearby when Wallace collapsed, and he said a rescue unit arrived to the park quickly but it was still too late.

Wallace's family told Channel 4 that like the other players, their child had passed a physical before playing.

Although officials are not sure what caused Wallace to die, doctors urge every parent to take precautions before letting their children join athletic leagues.

"It's probably the most important thing. Realize that the vast majority of kids are going to be fine no matter what they do or where they do it. In the summer, you should get a good sport's physical -- a pre-participation physical. It's best if they get that at their medical home or their pediatrician to get their medical history," said Dr. David Vukich.

The doctor also said other important precautions include having children exercise in the morning or evening, drink plenty of fluids and to take periodic breaks to cool down.

According to the medical examiner, the autopsy on Wallace is pending, and there is an active investigation into what caused his death.

Wallace's family members said they are planning a funeral for the child on Saturday. They have set up an account to help offset the cost of funeral expenses. Anyone wanting to donate can do so at any Vystar, where the Account for Rashad Wallace has been created.