University of Wisconsin-Green Bay men’s swim & dive team member Alex Smolecki has died at the age of 20, the school announced Friday.
UW-Green Bay said in a press release that Smolecki died on Tuesday night. A cause of death was not released.
Update: A source close to the situation confirmed to SwimSwam that Smolecki was the individual who died in the incident at the Family Shooting Academy on Tuesday after it was reported that someone accidentally shot themselves.
It is with heavy hearts that we mourn the tragic loss of @GBPhoenixSwim Student-Athlete Alex Smolecki.
Alex made a positive impact on everyone he came in contact with as a leader, a friend, and teammate, and he will be missed dearly.
Full story: https://t.co/3G1wAHgoE1
— Green Bay Phoenix (@GBPhoenix) February 28, 2025
A native of Hickory Hills, Ill., Smolecki was in his junior year at Green Bay and was slated to graduate early in the spring of 2025 with a degree in mechanical engineering. The school said it will award him with his degree posthumously in May 2025.
“Phoenix Swimming and Diving are devastated by the tragic passing of Alex Smolecki (Smo),” head swimming & diving coach Alex Lewis said.
“Alex made a positive impact on everyone he came in contact with as a leader, a friend, and teammate. Alex was one of those athletes that made every day fun and lighthearted. Our thoughts and prayers go out to the Smolecki family during this incredibly challenging time.”
“Our Phoenix Family is heartbroken over the sudden loss of Alex Smolecki,” Mark Murphy Endowed Director of Athletics Josh Moon said. “We extend our deepest condolences to his family, friends, teammates, coaches and all who loved Alex. Please join us in praying for all who are impacted in this difficult time.”
Smolecki competed just last week at the 2025 Horizon League Championships, placing 20th in the men’s 100 breast, 23rd in the 200 breast and 36th in the 50 free.
He set personal best times in both breaststroke events as a freshman during the 2022-23 season, placing 11th in the 100 breast (56.52) and 9th in the 200 breast (2:01.88) at the 2023 Horizon League Championships.
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Alex’s older brother, Sebastian (Sebby) Smolecki, is currently a fifth-year senior on the men’s team.
UWGB is providing support to students and staff at the Green Bay Wellness Center, Mantra Health, and counselors with Kress offices. You can find the appropriate resources here.
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Such a tragedy! May the memory of Alex Smolecki endure as a blessing.