8 Year-Old With Honorary TCU Swimming Scholarship Passes Away

8-year old Nathan Lin, who was named an honorary member of TCU’s swim team, passed away last Friday.

In February, Nathan signed a letter of intent to join the Horned Frogs and swam a 25 yard freestyle race in the TCU pool to make it official. The entire TCU team and coach were there to make the experience possible, with an uproarious applause after Nathan swam impressively fast during his lap.

Nathan was a fan of the TCU swim team not only because he was born in Fort Worth, but because his mom, Cathy Lin, had been a decorated member of the swim team who qualified for NCAAs during her college career.

Instead of just visiting the swim team like Nathan did for TCU football and basketball teams, coach Richard Sybesma decided to offer Nathan a letter of intent, making him feel part of the team.

Nathan had an exciting last couple months of his life, thanks to Make-A-Wish Foundation North Texas. Nathan met the swim, football, and basketball teams at TCU, and his hero, former star quarterback Trevone Boykin. He also took a trip to Disneyland with his family.

Nathan was suffering from Grade IV glioblastoma multiforme, the most common and aggressive form of brain cancer, which was diagnosed in July of last year. He underwent six weeks of radiation treatment, and was going to participate in a two-year chemotherapy regimen.

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Texas fan
7 years ago

Deepest condolences to the Lin family. TCU is a class act! Thanks Richard!

Johnny Parker
7 years ago

Kudos to coaches and staff. Making a difference in the lives of young people no matter the age.

Stan Crump
7 years ago

Nice job, Richard!

Hswimmer
7 years ago

Praying for the family and friends in this tough time!

Loretta Woodson
7 years ago

My prayers goes out to Nathan Family and Friends!

About Aaron Schwartz

Aaron Schwartz

Aaron Schwartz Aaron Schwartz has been swimming since age 10 at CCAT Club Team. Although he's dabbled with many events, he prides himself as being a sprint breastroker and freestyler. He has always been interested in technology, and wants to attend the Goizueta Business School At Emory University. At Emory, Aaron …

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