(STILLWATER, Oklahoma / August 17, 2017) – The Oklahoma State soccer team will honor the late Neal Patterson as well as the families of the Oklahoma soccer community who suffered losses from an automobile crash earlier this summer.
Patterson lost his battle with cancer in July at the age of 67. The OSU alumnus is the main benefactor for the construction of the Cowgirls’ new soccer stadium, a $20 million project that is set to be completed in 2018. Throughout the 2017 season, OSU’s uniforms will include a patch with Patterson’s initials – NP – sewn onto the sleeve.
During Friday’s season opener against Loyola at the Cowgirl Soccer Complex, the OSU team will also honor the Van Horn, Kitterman and Edwards families that were involved in a fatal auto accident in July by wearing black bands.
Losing their lives as a result of the crash were Erin Van Horn, Beck Kitterman, Zach Van Horn and Lizzie Edwards. Izzy Kitterman remains hospitalized, while Lauren Van Horn and Sam Van Horn are recovering at home.
Several of the children were involved in youth soccer in Oklahoma. Beck Kitterman was part of the TSC Hurricane ’05 boys, while Lizzie Edwards played for TSC Hurricane ’04 girls. Both Izzy Kitterman and Lauren Van Horn are also members of TSC Hurricane ’04 girls.
Oklahoma State’s roster includes several alumni of TSC Hurricane, with Marlo Zoller, Anna Beffer, Rachel VanFossen, Haley Woodard and Lana Duke on that list.
Additionally, Edwards donated organs prior to passing away, and OSU soccer encourages everyone to consider registering for organ donation. To do so in Oklahoma, visit http://www.lifeshareoklahoma.org/.
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