A University of Oregon tennis player died on Saturday after drowning in what is being called a tragic cliff diving accident.
The Register-Guard reports that Alex Rovello, a 21-year-old junior at the school, jumped from a 60-foot cliff into Tamolitch Pool and did not emerge from the deep, near-freezing waters. Witnesses reportedly said it looked like he hit the water with his face and upper chest.
Officials reportedly say people nearby tried to save Rovello but it was too difficult given the conditions. One witness ran two miles to call 911 for help because there was no cell phone service in the area.
Rovello went undefeated in high school and won four state singles titles in Oregon. He went 21-8 last season as a No. 3 and 4 singles player for the Ducks.
“The Oregon tennis family is devastated by the loss of Alex,” said Oregon’s tennis coach, Nils Schyllander. “He was an amazing person and teammate and his spirit will live on forever with all of us who were fortunate enough to have known him. Our thoughts and prayers go out to his parents, Geri and Jim Rovello, and to the entire family.”
Photo: GoDucks.com
