The St. Ignatius College Prep community is absolutely reeling, left to mourn former student-athlete Hazel Krauss, even as her former volleyball squad is still out there, grinding through their state playoff run. This isn’t just any loss. The Saint Ignatius Wolfpack players and coaches are out on the court for the Girls Volleyball State Playoff regional tournament, carrying the crushing weight of losing a teammate described by everyone who knew her as a true leader.
A Coach Remembers A Player Who Was “All About the Business”
Kayla Malec, a coach with Chicago Elite Volleyball, knew Hazel from when she was just 12 years old. This isn’t an easy time, Malec told us, heartbroken by the loss of someone she coached for so long. Krauss, who rocked the number 41 jersey, wasn’t just a player, she was a captain for Chicago Elite Volleyball. Malec’s words paint a picture of someone special: “Hazel was all about the business, all about volleyball, all about getting better. And just everything a coach would want in a player.” That’s the kind of dedication you always hope to see.
The 19-year-old was a freshman at the University of Florida, her whole life ahead of her. Over the weekend, she was tragically killed in a crash while crossing the street. Gainesville, Florida police reported that the accident happened when a driver swerved to avoid another car, but instead hit a different vehicle and, devastatingly, struck Krauss. It’s just gut-wrenching to think about.
Community Steps Up Amidst Heartbreak
In a moment of pure humanity, a nurse driving by, Porchia Hardy, actually stopped to help until first responders got there. Hardy said something so important: “She wasn’t alone and there were people there that cared for her. And that we really tried to help her and care for her wellbeing.” That’s a small comfort in an unimaginable tragedy. Malec, who’s been coaching for nine years, said she’s never experienced anything like this. It’s “heartbreaking,” and as a coach, you love these kids like they’re your own, she added.
The St. Ignatius College Prep released a statement that really gets to the heart of who Hazel was: “Hazel reflected the very best of what we hope to see in our graduates: a willingness to grow, intellectual curiosity, faith, love for others, and a sincere commitment to justice.” That’s a legacy any of us would be proud to leave. Gainesville police did arrest a drunk driver at the scene, but that vehicle wasn’t involved in Krauss’s crash, and no arrests have been made in connection with the collision itself.
Her Legacy Lives On Through Those She Inspired
Even through the pain, Malec says she keeps thinking about all the memories she shared with Krauss. “I just want to give her a hug, but all I can do is remember all the good moments that we had with her, all the times we came back and got a win,” she said. As her family, friends, and teammates try to navigate this immense loss, Malec is certain Krauss’s spirit, her drive, and her inspiration will live on through the athletes she touched. “I’m motivated, now more than ever, as a coach to continue to do my job, and continue to touch these ladies and bring good moments because we had so many good moments with her, and we just want that to live on forever,” Malec passionately stated. Her legacy is clearly going to fuel so many, and that’s what you call a true impact.
This article was created with AI assistance and published under Seattle On Tap’s editorial standards. See our Editorial Policy.
Originally reported by Yahoo Sports.
Leave a Reply