Arkansas Mourns the Loss of Beloved Athletic Trainer “Diamond Dave” England

The University of Arkansas community is mourning the loss of David “Diamond Dave” England — a man whose four-decade career as an Athletic Trainer shaped generations of Razorbacks.

England passed away Tuesday at age 69 after suffering an aneurysm, surrounded by his wife, Heather, and daughters Alyson and Jennifer, with Bruce Springsteen playing softly in the background — just as he’d wished.

Counting his time as a student, England served the Razorbacks for more than 40 years, working across football, baseball, and men’s basketball.

He was Arkansas’ Head Athletic Trainer from 1989 to 2019 and later its Director of Sports Medicine. Players, coaches, and colleagues across decades remember him as the steady, good-humored heart of the program.

“He’s definitely going to be missed in more ways than one,” said former player and coach Scotty Thurman. “If you ever knew him, you know Dave was an unbelievable human being.”

Known for his tireless work ethic — often arriving at Bud Walton Arena by 4:30 a.m. — England earned a reputation for both grit and compassion. He once slept in the training room to treat an injured player every 45 minutes so the athlete could compete the next day.

“Nobody worked more hours,” recalled former assistant coach Brad Dunn.

England’s career highlights included a national championship ring from the 1994 men’s basketball team, hall of fame induction into the Arkansas Athletic Trainers’ Association, and the SEC’s 2016 Chris Patrick Award for most outstanding Athletic Trainer.

But his greatest legacy lives in the countless athletes he guided through injury and doubt.

As Heather England wrote, “That would be an incredible way to honor a wonderful man who spent his entire career serving others.”

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