Phillip Griffin, who captained the U-17 team last year, died in a car crash. I have no link right now.
Here you go. Gray Griffin was killed. http://www.furman.edu/press/pressview.cfm?ID=768 Chefik Simo being treated for a broken pelvis and other injuries. In addition, Josh Villalobos is being treated for non life threatening injuries.
Wow, what sad, sad news! Tough day for U.S. soccer. Pretty impressive freshman class at Furman with three former U-17 World Cup players. Let's hope the other two make it through without permanent damage.
While the games seem inconsequential in the face of the loss of such a bright future, Simo's injury will almost certainly keep him out of next month's CONCACAF qualifiers. Simo was the likely choice to be Thomas Rongen's starting left back. Again, the games aren't important compared to the loss of life. But, the games will go on and Rongen will have to find a replacement at left back.
My condolances to his friends and family. Best wishes to Chefik and Josh!! : ( My Flag will be at half staff this weekned.
Very Sad News It is a very sad day. Condolences to the Griffin family and to all of Gray's friends in US Soccer and Furman Soccer. Let's hope for a full recovery for both Chefik and Josh.
My condolences to all involved. We shall remember your strong representation and leadership for our country. You will be missed Mr. Griffin. -Tron
I live in the Huntersville area(Griffin's hometown), I played club there last year, so I had the privelage to watch him play more than once. He was a great player and made every player around show their best. His presence will be missed on and off the field.......
It's very sad that someone so young and promising should be taken from us. My heart goes out to all involved.
The loss of life is always a sad thing and IMO when it involves youth, it is always a tragedy. My condolences to all of Gray's family, friends, and teammates; all the other injured parties involved; and the driver of the tractor trailer...
Gray... Gray Griffin was absolute nails. Those of us whose watchful eyes have been scanning the horizon for future US stars will surely raise a pint this evening to a fine young player. Godspeed
referring to that article....Griffin's high school coach was my club coach for a year and a half. He was a great guy who made a great friendship with his players, so I am pretty sure Calderone(his HS coach) would have acted as a mentor. Hopefully him and Gray's parents are doing alright....our youth teams should dedicate the next big event they win to Gray...