York College wrestler killed in van crash
The victim was identified as Brock Pigorsch, 21, a sophomore wrestler from Herington, Kan. Nine other wrestlers and two coaches were on the van headed to a tournament hosted by Northwestern College in Orange City, Iowa.
Other wrestlers suffered injuries, but all were treated and released, York spokesman Steddon Sikes told The Christian Chronicle. No other vehicles were involved in the accident.
“Words cannot express the overwhelming sadness that has made its way on our campus,” said Wayne Baker, president of York, a Nebraska college associated with Churches of Christ. “It is very difficult to lose one of your own in such a way, and our hearts break for Brock’s family and close friends. I am confident that many are in diligent prayer, and I trust that God’s peace will be given in this tragic loss.”
York officials asked for prayers for the Pigorsch family and the wrestling team. The college is closed Monday in observance of Martin Luther King Jr. Day, but a memorial service for Brock is planned during York’s chapel service Tuesday morning.
Pigorsch, a physical education major, transferred to York in August 2007. As a wrestler for Herington High School, he was All-State honorable mention in Kansas in 2005 and named to the state All-Academic team. His brother Brandon is a senior on the York wrestling team. The team was transported back to York on Friday evening, officials said.
Details of how the wreck occurred were not immediately available.
