CALIFORNIA (Aug. 21) – PennWest University and the California (PA) athletic department are deeply saddened by the passing of Karoline Heintz, a first-year student and member of the California women's soccer team.

Following a message to the University community from Interim President James Fisher, Athletic Director Dr. Karen Hjerpe issued the following statement on behalf of California Athletics:

"California Athletics is devastated by the tragic loss of our student-athlete Karoline Heintz. Karoline was a bright and kind young woman with so much ahead of her. She will always remain in our hearts. Our deepest condolences are with her family, friends, teammates, coaches and all who knew and loved her."

Members of the Counseling Center are available to support students and members of the University community. The California Campus Counseling Center is located in Carter Hall (Room G-65) and is open on weekdays from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m.

Heintz, a defender for the Vulcans, graduated from Peters Township High School this spring and was beginning her first year at PennWest.

With the support of PennWest California and Karoline's family, the Pennsylvania State Athletic Conference (PSAC) will observe a moment of silence at all conference athletic events held from Thursday, August 27, through Thursday, September 3. The tribute will provide an opportunity for the PSAC community to remember Karoline and stand in support of her family, friends, teammates, coaches and the PennWest California community.

California Athletics and the California women's soccer team have partnered with BeeGraphix on a t-shirt fundraiser benefiting Domestic Violence Services of Southwestern Pennsylvania (DVSSP). Shirts featuring Karoline's name and number are available for purchase at the link below. For each shirt sold, $10 will be donated to the organization.

To purchase a t-shirt, please CLICK HERE.