An Ohio community is mourning the loss of Dylan Veselic, a 16-year-old Bay High School sophomore who died from injuries sustained during a lacrosse game earlier this week.
Veselic was injured Tuesday evening in a game against Olmsted Falls after he was struck in the back of the head. After undergoing surgery, he remained in critical condition until his passing was confirmed early Thursday morning, according to a
statement from the Bay Village City School District.
“With heavy hearts, the Veselic Family shares the news that Dylan has passed away from injuries suffered during a lacrosse game. We are deeply touched by the overwhelming support and kindness shown by our community and beyond. We ask that you continue to keep us in your thoughts and prayers during this difficult time,” the family said in a
statement shared by the school district.
Bay High School Principal Jason Martin had previously
updated families about Veselic’s condition on Wednesday, noting that he remained in critical condition and that the administration was in direct contact with Veselic’s father, according to a post on X.
The Bay Athletic Department, along with the boys lacrosse and soccer teams, also released a statement, expressing gratitude for the widespread support in a post on X on Thursday.
“Dylan was an amazing student athlete, always wearing a smile on his face while supporting his fellow teammates. He was kind, hardworking, and dedicated, consistently showing leadership, empathy, and a positive attitude both on the field and in the classroom. Dylan’s enthusiasm, determination, and willingness to help others made him a role model for his peers,” said Matt Spellman and the Bay High School Athletic Department.
In response to the tragedy, community members have rallied around the Veselic family. A
Meal Train donation page set up to support the family during Dylan’s hospitalization has raised over $52,000 from more than 700 donors, far surpassing its initial $500 goal.
Community tributes have also taken shape. Colleen Cleary Nasman, a Bay Village resident, encouraged families to place luminaries outside their homes Thursday night in support of the Veselic family, according to a comment on the school district’s
Facebook post.
Additionally, a “Sticks Out” tribute, started by Bay Village hockey mom Lysa Balmer Kenney, encouraged residents to display lacrosse and hockey sticks on their porches to honor Dylan, as reported by Fox 8 News. A prayer service and vigil were held Thursday evening at St. Raphael’s Catholic Church in Bay Village. 
