Honorary Texas Christian University swimmer Nathan Lin passed away June 3rd. The 8 year old signed a “letter of intent” with the team in February, six months into his battle with Grade IV glioblastoma multiforme.
Lin’s mother Cathy was an NCAA qualifier for the Horned Frogs, under current head coach Richard Sybesma. Through his mother, and an interest in his local University, Lin was a huge fan of the Horned Frogs. The Make-A-Wish foundation helped Lin met the TCU basketball and football teams, in addition to supporting a family trip to Disney.
Given his existing connection to the swimming team, Sybesma wanted to make Lin’s involvement with this group exceptionally special. Thus, the idea for the letter of intent.
At a ceremony in February, Lin was welcomed into the team, and even showed off his skills in a 25 freestyle. Sybesma was thrilled to help make an improvement in the life of a child he taught swim lessons to for four years.
Both the athletes and the coaches defined the experience as impactful, while Lin reportedly called it “Awesome!”
Lin passed away Friday after the tumor recurred.
Watch his original signing here.
Read more from the Star-Telegram here.