I think, for me, this is what makes this even more sad - knowing that Rongen didn't get many chances to do this lately. Since the beginning of November, Rongen has been off with either the U20 or U23 team. He had a short break in December when he got back back from the UAE, but, since the beginning of January, he's been gone most of the time. He just didn't get much time with her these past few months. For some reason, that keeps nagging at me. And, it makes the commitment these guys make for MLS and US Soccer all the more appreciated.
thank you very much to all This is Nick Megaloudis , father of Nicole Megaloudis the VCU player that was killed in the automobile accident. I just wanted to say thank you very much for the kind words and the thoughts. I am also sure that Thomas Rongen also appreciates the same. It is times like this that the true soccer fans and community come out in support. Our families thank you and may God bless each and everyone of you. Please remember to hug your children and tell them you love them. Also, in lieu of flowers we have set up scholarship fund in her name so we can continue her love for the sport. The address is as follows Nicole Megaloudis Scholarship Fund c/o BPK Inc. 12386 Falkirk Drive Fairfax, Va 22033 Once again thank you very much. Sincerely, Nick Megaloudis
Condolences for the Megaloudis and Rongen families. Our family holds your families in our hearts, minds and prayers tonight. Doug, Liza and Harper
Kinda brings things into perspective. Was reading about our loss to Mexico, then saw this. Who cares about a soccer game? This is heart-rendering. Thomas and Nick and family...my prayers and tears are with you.
Really, this shows us that soccer is secondary. And to think we get so wound up about people playing a game. I hope that you can find peace in Nicole's passing, and joy in what she brought to the world. Sincerely, Andy Love
my condolences to the rongen family... A very very sad week for US Soccer... men this is sad and now i can care less about our loss to mexico... May She rest in peace and all my deepest condolences go to her family... Amen
My deepest and most heartfelt sympathies to friends and family. The following is poem that may bring some comfort. To All Parents "I’ll lend you for a little while a child of mine," He said. "For you to love the while he lives and mourn for when he’s dead. It may be six or seven years or twenty-two or three; But will you, till I call him back, take care of him for me? He’ll bring his charms to gladden you, and should his stay be brief, You’ll have his lovely memories as solace for your grief." "I can not promise he will stay, since all from earth return, But there are lessons taught down there I want this child to learn. I’ve searched the wide world over in my search for teachers true; And from the throng that crowd life’s lanes I have selected you. Now will you give him all your love, or think the labor vain, Nor hate Me when I come to take him back again?" I fancied that I heard them say: "Dear Lord, Thy will be done; For all the joy this child shall bring, the risk of grief we’ll run. We’ll shelter him with happiness; and we’ll love him while we may; And for the happiness we’ve known, forever grateful stay. But should the angels call for him much sooner than we’ve planned, We’ll brave the bitter grief that comes and try to understand." by Edgar A. Guest
If anything ever puts being a crazed fan of a mere game into perspective, it's this. My condolences to the Megaloudis and Rongen families.
Re: thank you very much to all People - never underestimate the power of these boards... Next time you want to villify or be nasty towards a player or a coach, just remember we're all part of the community Mr. Megaloudis references. Man. What a depressing morning. But full of perspective...
Thanks for posting the above poem. Unfortunately, this whole thread really hits home. Yesterday, I attended the funeral of a former player I coached last year. Jordyn was only 7 years old and she died Thursday from a brain aneuysm. God, I feel for all the families involved. I can't even put into words the sorrow or pain that was evident yesterday. I trully wish I had the poem yesterday to give to her parents. Everything besides family and friends seems different and so less important right now. I hope the Megadoulis and Rongen families have much support to help them through this seemingly unbearable time.
This is awful, tragic news. My condolences to her family, friends and everyone else whose lives were touched by her.