Kristen Ryan. Photo: Cape Breton Post (capebretonpost.com)

Earlier this afternoon, Cape Breton University announced some very sad news:

It is with deep sadness that CAPERS Athletics announces the passing of one of our most decorated student-athletes.

Kristen Ryan of Port Hastings, NS, a five-year member of our women's volleyball team passed away Thursday evening in a motor-vehicle accident outside of Halifax. An athlete that competed fearlessly and always left it all out on the floor, Kristen was a leader and friend among her teammates and all members of the CAPERS family.

“We are terribly saddened by the news of Kristen Ryan’s tragic death,” said CBU Director of Athletics John Ryan. “Kristen was a special member of our CAPERS family; a great teammate and individual and she will be sorely missed by all of us here at CBU.  We extend our heartfelt sympathy to Kristen’s family and friends during this difficult time.”

One of the most popular players in the history of CBU women’s volleyball, Kristen was a two-time AUS All-Star and Libero of the Year in 2009-10. Having completed her final year of eligibility with the CAPERS last season, Kristen was scheduled to graduate with her Bachelor of Arts degree during CBU’s fall convocation on October 27th.

CBU Athletics and the campus community offer their deepest condolences to Kristen’s family, teammates, friends and all those in the Nova Scotia volleyball community that would have had the pleasure to know, love and feel her vibrant spirit. Her passing certainly leaves a void in our CAPERS family. Her presence will be missed.

This marks the second auto-mobile related death of a Canadian volleyball player in recent memory.  One year and seven months ago, UBC-O men's volleyball outside hitter Jordan Young passed away after a collision with a power pole.  

Cape Breton University is located in Sydney, Nova Scotia and is a member of the AUS conference of the CIS.  The women's volleyball team is scheduled to begin their regular season later this month.

Our thoughts and prayers are with Kristen's family, friends and teammates.

Source: Cape Breton Athletics