Sad news. My thoughts and prayers go out to Jessica Beck's family and friends.
http://www.cstv.com/sports/c-swim/st...091605aad.html
Ohio State Swimmer Beck Dies
Natural causes expected to be cause of death.
Sept. 16, 2005
COLUMBUS, Ohio (
OSU) -- Jessica Beck, an Ohio State synchronized swimmer, passed away Thursday in Columbus from what appears to be natural causes. Beck, 21, a native of Richmond, Va., would have been a senior this school year.
Local services for Beck will be held at 9 a.m. Saturday at St. Thomas More Newman Center, 64 W. Lane Ave., Columbus.
"The Ohio State family is doing everything it can to support Jessica's family, her teammates and her coaches," Gene Smith, Ohio State Director of Athletics, said. "We would appreciate your support in keeping the Beck family in your thoughts."
"Jessica was a ray of sunshine in our lives," Linda Lichter-Witter,
OSU head coach, said. "In her short 21 years, she gave and received more love from her family, boyfriend, teammates and coaches than most people experience in their lifetime.
"The synchronized swimming family appreciates all the support the department of athletics has given us at this difficult time."
"I loved Jessica like she was my own child and I am devastated over losing her," Holly Vargo-Brown,
OSU assistant coach, said. "I can't begin to imagine the pain of her family, her boyfriend and her close friends. My heart and prayers go out to them."
In honor of Beck, the synchronized swimming team will alter its pre-meet tradition of a closed circle composed of the team members. A space in the circle now will be left open for Beck at all meets.
A moment of silence for Beck will be held before the Ohio State vs. San Diego State football game Saturday in Ohio Stadium.
Beck spent the last several weeks working with the American Red Cross to support its Hurricane Katrina Relief Efforts. The Ohio State synchronized swimming and men's and women's swimming teams are planning a fundraiser in Beck's name for continued support of the Red Cross. Details are pending.
Beck, a communication major, was a three-time Ohio State Scholar-Athlete, a two-time Academic Big Ten honoree and an Academic All-American. She was a member of two Collegiate National teams.
