USC Water Polo Player Passes Away

Freshman Jon Walters, a member of the NCAA champion USC water polo team, passed away on Wednesday at the age of 19, the Orange County Register reported. His tragic death reportedly came as a result of a heart attack.

In early December, Walters was part of the USC team that defeated the University of Pacific, 12-11 in overtime, to give the program its sixth consecutive national title.

As a true freshman, Walters played an important role for the Trojans from the two-meter position, netting 17 goals over the course of the season.

In 2012, Walters was a first team All-American and the 2012 CIF Player of the Year at Mater Dei High School in Santa Ana, Calif. He was also a member of the U.S Junior National Team.

The Trojan Family is devastated by Walter's passing and our hearts go out to all of his teammates, coaches, friends and family.

UPDATE--FRIDAY 3 PM PST

A memorial service for USC men's water polo freshman Jon Walters has been scheduled for January 18 at Mariners Church of Irvine at 11 a.m. The family has requested that all water polo players in attendance wear their club or college team shirts.

In addition, USC has setup a Jon Walters Memorial Scholarship per the families' wishes.

Please send contributions:

c/o Ron Orr
USC Heritage Hall
3501 Watt Way
Los Angeles, CA
90089-0602                -via usctrojans.com

We are heartbroken & saddened w/news. Our Trojan family has lost a special member today. We will remember & love you forever Jon Walters✌

— USC Water Polo (@USCWaterPolo) January 9, 2014

RIP fellow Trojan Jon Walters. Prayers go out to the Walters family. I was lucky enough to have class with you this semester man. RIP❤️💛✌️

— Michael Hutchings (@CaliHutch_17) January 9, 2014

The Walters are in my prayers man RIP to a good friend of mine Jon Walters and fellow MD alum and Trojan 😔

— katin reinhardt (@katinreinhardt1) January 9, 2014

The Trojan Family lost an incredible athlete & friend today. Heartbroken with the passing of Jon Walters, praying for all near to him.

— Ashley Brewer (@Ash_Brew) January 9, 2014