NC State swimming alum Jack Roney dies in accident

Jack Roney, a former North Carolina State University swimmer and assistant coach, died in a tragic accident on Sunday, July 5, 2026, at the age of 39. The university and his family confirmed his death, which occurred just days after he and his wife, Maresa, celebrated their 15th wedding anniversary.

Officials have not released details about the circumstances of the accident. Roney's friend, Jonathan Wall, described the death as a tragic accident in a public statement. The NC State swimming and diving program announced Roney's passing in a social media post on Monday, July 6, expressing condolences to his family and noting his lasting impact on the program.

Roney is survived by his wife and their five children: Gunnar, Scout, Beau, Archer, and Crew. A GoFundMe campaign was established to support the family with daily expenses, childcare, and future education costs. The fundraiser had garnered significant support, raising over $109,000 toward its $190,000 goal by July 7.

A standout swimmer for the Wolfpack, Roney held the program record in the 200-yard breaststroke upon his graduation in 2009, a record that has since been broken. He returned to serve as an assistant coach for the...