Franklyn Clarke was struck by the talent and drive of 16-year-old Nash Dunlop when he met him during tryouts in late August.
“It felt like I knew him much longer than the time we spent together,” Clarke said. “He was just a great kid and we were looking forward to him playing with us.”
Clarke, who coaches at Vanguard North Basketball, a basketball academy in the GTA, told that Dunlop was set to join the academy’s prep-season this fall and was supposed to be there for strength and conditioning on the morning he passed away.
The young athlete died unexpectedly on Sept. 19, leaving the Guelph community in mourning as tributes and messages flood social media.
confirmed through a close family friend that Dunlop was the 16-year-old who tragically lost his life on Wellington Road 29 after being struck by a van south of Eramosa-Garafraxa Townline shortly after midnight on Sept. 19.
Two 17-year-old boys from Guelph have been charged with second-degree murder related to this incident. Their identities cannot be revealed under the Youth Criminal Justice Act.
The minivan driver stayed at the scene and wasn’t injured, according to police reports.
Wellington County OPP is continuing their investigation into the collision and is asking anyone with information to come forward.
A cross hangs on a hydro pole along Wellington Road 29 on Tuesday evening. The name ‘Nash’ is written on it along with several initials and the words “see you soon.” A pair of basketball shoes sit at the base of the hydro pole with more flowers. (Kate Bueckert/CBC)
Clarke confirmed that Dunlop was part of Guelph Youth Basketball Academy (GYBA) and also attended John F. Ross Collegiate Vocational Institute in Guelph.
That afternoon, Clarke spoke with Dunlop’s father, Brady, learning about how Dunlop had been hit by a vehicle late Friday night.
“I couldn’t believe it. I had to pull over; I was driving, and instead of texting him back, I just called him,” Clarke said.
“He was happy that I called, and I was glad to hear his voice too, but it was extremely difficult.”
Vanguard North Basketball is among several basketball groups paying tribute to 16-year-old Nash Dunlop, who dies on Sept. 19. Dunlop was supposed to join the academy in the fall. (Vanguard North Basketball)
Clarke described Dunlop’s passing as a tragedy.
“He had his whole life ahead of him; besides being a good basketball player from what I saw when I met him, he was just an amazing kid,” he noted.
In a statement sent to , GYBA shared “Nash was a gifted athlete who brought energy, determination and passion to everything he did.”
“He loved basketball and was known for his athleticism, competitive spirit and commitment to his teammates,” GBYA added.
“We are heartbroken for his family, friends and community. In moments of tragedy, we are reminded of how important it is for us all to come together in times like these.”Nash Dunlop was part out of the Guelph Youth Basketball Association. The group said “he loved basketball and was known for his athleticism, competitive spirit and commitment to his teammates.” (Guelph Youth Basketball Association)
A fund has also been established in Dunlop’s honor through the Guelph Community Foundation; funds will support basketball initiatives at his school as well as throughout Guelph.
The local community is placing basketballs on their porches as a way to remember Dunlop.
A letter sent out by John F. Ross Collegiate Vocational Institute on Sept. 20 expressed sadness over losing a “senior student” following an accident on Sept. 19; counselors are available at school for support.
The Upper Grand District School Board didn’t confirm whether this student attended John F. Ross Collegiate Vocational Institute when contacted by .
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Mental health clinic at Guelph high school
The Waterloo-Wellington branch of Canadian Mental Health Association (CMHA) is ensuring students at John F. Ross Collegiate Vocational Institute have access to necessary support while they cope with Dunlop’s death.
CMHA will host a mental health walk-in clinic at the school Tuesday evening in collaboration with The Nightingale Centre-a nonprofit organization offering grief services for children & teens within Guelph & Wellington County.
Executive Director Jodi Pareira emphasized how crucial it is for teens dealing with grief during this time.
“Grief alone can be tough but sharing it within community makes things feel better,” she told .
“It’s validating knowing you’re not going through this alone.”
Pareira added that talking about memories helps keep alive thoughts about those who’ve passed away.
“How do you create legacies so they remain present within your community?” she asked. pp>
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