TRAGEDY STRIKES CHAMPIONS FC FAMILIES
As many of you may have read about or seen in the news yesterday a tragic accident occured yesterday morning (Aug 2) in Provo. The accident involved five players and two parents from the club who were traveling to participate in the MLS Futbolito 4v4 tournament in SLC with Champions U14 and U16 teams.
Teresa Valencia, mother of two of the players injured in the accident, was thrown from the vehicle and died at the scene. Teresa was survived by her husband Jorge, and son's Jorge and Fernando "Fernie". Teresa's daughter "Lupe" was not in the vehicle. Teresa was one of the most kind, sweet woman you could meet, she always went out of her way to help anyone in need. She will be sorely missed by her family and everyone within the club who knew her.
Kevin Alexander Mendez Dos Santos U16 also thrown from the vehicle died at the scene. Kevin's family moved here from Portugal three years ago. Kevin was an extremely well spoken, kind and thoughtful young man, as well as an extremely talented soccer player. Kevin recently guest played for the U17 Champions FC team at Strikerfest and helped propel them to the Final. Kevin was a wonderful team mate and person. We offer our sincerest condolences to his family.
Fernando "Fernie" Valencia U14 was also thrown from the vehicle but miraculously survived and was life-flighted to the hospital were he underwent surgery for a broken right femur. Fernie sustained multiple other injuries. His surgery went very well and is recovering quickly.
Jorge Valencia U16, sustained multiple hand fractures and lacerations. He will undergo surgery next week on his hand. He was released from the hospital yesterday.
Arturo "Pokey" Paredes U16, was released from the hospital with minor injuries.
Jose Lazarete U16 condition is unknown but we understand he sustained some serious injuries. We will update you all as we find out.
THESE FAMILIES NEED OUR SUPPORT! Please stop by any Mountain America Credit Union or send your donation to: Mountain America Credit Union 1659 N State St Orem, Utah 84057 in care of the Valencia Family Memorial Fund or the Kevin Santos Memorial Fund. Thank you for your support and your prayers.
Teresa Valenica's funeral will be held at Francis Catholic Church 65 East 500 North in Orem on August 7th 2008. The viewing will be from 9:30 am to 10:30 am and the ceremony will start at 10:30 am.
For more information about the accident you can visit: http://deseretnews.com/article/1,5143,700247889,00.html
