Early this morning, Thursday, Sept. 3, Newman University senior Reece Wright-Conklin died in a motorcycle accident. The 21-year-old member of the Newman Wrestling Team was on his way to a part-time job at PetSmart when the accident occurred.
“It’s a difficult day for our Newman community. It’s hard to understand God’s will in events like this. I’m so sorry, especially for Reece’s family and for our tight-knit athletic community that has lost a good friend,” Newman President Noreen M. Carrocci, Ph.D., said.
The university has made counselors available for students and faculty.
In a meeting this morning with wrestling coaches, teammates and athletics staff, Director of Athletics and Vice President for Student Affairs Vic Trilli encouraged those in attendance to talk with one another and seek help.
“We are here to help in any we can and we’ll do whatever we need to do to help you,” Trilli said.
A prayer service will be held this afternoon at 4 p.m. in St. John’s Chapel, inside Sacred Heart Hall on the Newman campus, for all students, teammates, faculty and staff.
Wright-Conklin will also be honored prior to the start of tonight’s season opening game for the Newman Women’s Soccer Team. Game time is set for 7 p.m. at Wilkins Field on campus.
Funeral arrangements are pending at this time.
