The sports world is reeling after the sudden loss of Jack Roney, a beloved former NC State swimmer and assistant coach, who passed away unexpectedly on July 5 at just 39 years old. A father of five, Roney had recently celebrated his 15th wedding anniversary with his wife, Maresa.
According to reports, Roney died in a tragic accident, though specific details have not been released. NC State Swimming confirmed the heartbreaking news in a statement, writing, “We mourn the passing of former assistant coach and Wolfpack alumnus Jack Roney. Our thoughts and prayers are with the Roney family during this difficult time. His impact on our program and community will be remembered.”
Roney was a standout athlete at NC State, where he broke the school’s 200-yard breaststroke record—a mark that stood from 2008 to 2011. After his collegiate career, he returned to the program as an assistant coach, mentoring the next generation of Wolfpack swimmers. He met his wife, Maresa, while both were swimmers at the university, and the couple went on to build a family with five children.
In his obituary, Roney was remembered for his boundless energy and purpose. “Jack lived life with enthusiasm and purpose. He loved his 5 a.m. CrossFit class at Triangle CrossFit, volunteered at Hope Community Church, served as the swim meet starter for the Hampton Ridge Swim Team, and rarely missed an opportunity to cheer on his children at their games, meets, performances and activities,” it read.
The obituary further emphasized his devotion to family: “Above everything else, Jack loved his family. Being a husband and father was his greatest joy and highest calling. Every decision he made and every goal he pursued was rooted in providing for, encouraging, and loving his family.”
A GoFundMe campaign has been launched to support Maresa and the children. The fundraiser notes, “Just days after celebrating their 15th wedding anniversary, Maresa lost her husband, Jack Roney. Jack was a true Wolfpacker, a man of Christ, and a beloved father, friend, and husband. His legacy lives on in the countless lives he touched and the love he shared with his family and community.”
The loss of a young father and coach has deeply affected the NC State community and beyond. Roney’s story echoes the recent loss of another sports father, reminding us of the fragility of life and the importance of cherishing family.
As friends, former teammates, and fans mourn, they hold onto the memory of a man who gave everything to his family, faith, and sport. Jack Roney’s legacy will live on through the lives he touched and the love he shared.
