Snow College football player killed in crash
Oct 4, 2021, 6:24 AM | Updated: Oct 5, 2021, 3:06 pm
FILE PHOTO (KSL Sports)
(KSL Sports)
EPHRAIM, Utah — A football player at Snow College was killed in a single-vehicle crash, according to school officials.
Authorities said the crash happened Sunday evening on 100 North and identified the victim as offensive lineman Mafatini Taimane-Laititi Mafatini, of Maui, Hawaii.
“We are extremely saddened by the news of Mafitini’s passing,” said Snow College coach Zac Erekson. “Our thoughts and prayers go out to his family back in Maui. Mafitini was such a bright light in this world. His smile and infectious laugh will be missed not only by our team, but by all those who knew him. Again, we give our love and prayers for his family and for all those that were involved in this terrible accident.”
Snow College offensive lineman Mafatini Taimane-Laititi Mafatini, of Maui, Hawaii. (Snow College)
No cause for the crash was released, and the school has assembled a support team to assist the victim’s teammates and friends.
“A tragedy like this shakes all of us,” said Snow College President Bradley Cook. “We appreciate those who have delicately handled this situation with competence and pledge our support to our coaches, players, and the Mafatini family during this difficult time.”
Snow College athletic director Rob Nielson echoed Cook’s comments, saying, “Badger Football is a family, and we all are experiencing grief today. We will work together and take care of one another.”
A memorial service for Mafatini is scheduled for 8 p.m. Monday at Terry Foote Stadium in Ephraim.
Snow College defeated Georgia Military College 49-17 on Saturday in Milledgeville, Georgia. The Badgers are currently scheduled to host Iowa Western this Saturday.
“It’s nights like tonight when you realize football means very little and at the same time, it means everything,” Snow College defensive coordinator Jan Jorgensen tweeted Monday morning. “The bond and brotherhood felt by these young men will carry them through some of the worst moments of their lives. This team will forever have a place in my heart.”
A GoFundMe* account has been set up to help raise money for the family.
*KSL-TV does not assure that the money deposited to the account will be applied for the benefit of the persons named as beneficiaries. If you are considering a deposit to the account, you should consult your own advisors and otherwise proceed at your own risk.
