by Daniel Johnson
April 20, 2024
Simon was fondly remembered by his teammates.
Amitral “AJ” Simon Jr., who starred on the College of Albany throughout the Nice Danes workforce’s run within the 2023 FCS playoffs, died on April 17 at 25 years outdated. No reason behind dying has been reported, however Simon was conducting pre-draft visits to groups forward of the NFL Draft, which is held this 12 months from April 25 to 27.
As The Athletic experiences, the College of Albany posted a tribute to Simon on its Twitter/X account.
“The UAlbany soccer program was deeply saddened to study of the passing of former student-athlete Amitral ‘AJ’ Simon this morning,” the submit learn. “AJ was an amazing younger man and even higher teammate all through his time at UAlbany. He was a task mannequin each on and off the sphere, serving as a pillar to this program during the last two years. He will probably be profoundly missed.”
Simon was fondly remembered by his teammates and former head coach, Greg Gattuso, who described the 2 years he spent teaching and turning into nearer to Simon as “joyous” in his Twitter/X submit.
SSimon, who recorded 12.5 sacks in 2023, was additionally named to 2023’s All-CAA defensive workforce, the Phil Steele All-CAA first workforce, and an FCS Soccer Central First Group All-American.Along with these on-field honors, he was additionally named to the 2023 Fall CAA Commissioner’s Educational Honor Roll.
In asserting his declaration for the NFL Draft, Simon credited the teaching workers for his or her steering and mentorship on his path.
“The dedication and dedication of the teaching workers, the precious assets, and the unwavering help system have been instrumental in my development as a participant. Their steering has been pivotal in shaping my path towards this momentous determination to enter the NFL Draft.”
Simon concluded, “Thanks as soon as once more for every thing. I’m actually honored to have been part of the Purple Fam and stay up for the alternatives that lie forward. I’m thrilled to characterize the College at Albany as I take this subsequent step in my soccer profession. Unhappy that it’s over, however grateful that it occurred. With that being stated, I will probably be getting into my title within the 2024 NFL Draft!”
As Individuals Journal experiences, a number of tributes to Simon got here pouring in through social media. Though there was no official reason behind dying reported, some accounts on Twitter/X have speculated that he died because of a coronary heart assault. A GoFundMe has been arrange by Dominique Simon, his sister, which has exceeded its unique $30,000 funding request. In accordance with the fundraiser, Simon’s funeral providers have been set for April 29 at Pocono Neighborhood Church in his hometown of Tobyhanna, Pennsylvania.
RELATED CONTENT: Buffalo Payments Participant Damar Hamlin Speaks Publicly For Time Since His Collapse
