Kentucky junior defensive lineman Ahmad Breaux’s mother, Candice Lowe, shared her emotional thoughts on Nic Smith’s passing. (UK Athletics Photo)
Kentucky football had to share news Monday that no program or coach ever wants to share.
Kentucky announced that redshirt defensive lineman Nic Smith had passed at age 20.
“We are deeply saddened to announce the passing of our beloved teammate Nic Smith. We extend our thoughts and prayers to Nic’s family, friends and the members of our program,” Kentucky football posted on social media.
Details of his passing have not been released other than law enforcement officers confirming that no foul play was suspected.
Ahmad Breau is a junior defensive tackle who transferred from LSU to Kentucky in January. His mother, Candice Lowe, share an emotional post on her X account at @geauxbreauxmom on Tuesday:
“Our coaches did a thing yesterday.
“Not only did they share a private morning with our boys, they called us parents individually to check on US as well.
“Coach (Anwar) Stewart listened to everything I had to say and acknowledged my concerns and feelings; no interruptions and no rushing off the phone. What a class act Coach Stew is.
“A little over a year ago, Ahmad experienced the loss of another teammate in the same manner. There are things in life that we have no control over. We needed that support today.
“The mental load of football parents gets very heavy at times and the UK staff consistently reminds us that we aren’t doing this alone. We are a family.
“The BBN has been amazing as well … our supporters came together and that’s absolutely how it should be. You guys are amazing humans.
“Thank you, Coach (Will) Stein, for creating and (most importantly) maintaining a thriving, safe, & healthy space for our athletes as well as their families.
“We appreciate each and every one of you. You all are the reason I can finally get a good night’s sleep, knowing that my son is in good hands.
“Rest Well Nic
”
Say amen BBN.
A few hours earlier she posted that if any UK athlete needed help “in any way” that she was available along with other supportive parents and staff.
“I’m not a therapist, I’m a Mom. Ahmad’s Mom
. I can help you. I can relate to your problems and all of the changes happening so fast, because I have a son that goes through things just like you do. I wake up and navigate this life with him every single day. I remind him that he was never meant to do this alone. I can remind you that this is not where it ends, this is only the beginning of an amazing journey. Life is a beautiful experience. Whatever it is can be addressed. I’m just a DM away. This is happening far too often and I’m not ok,” she posted.
One Response
Thank you for sharing this Larry.
We never know for sure what kids are thinking or how they look at things in everyday life. As grownups and parents we take so many things for granted and it is a rude awakening when we realize that we cannot and do not control much of anything; no matter how much we want to.
Turning to God was the greatest thing we did while going through so much with one of our kids. Not sure I could have made it without Hope. It has even allowed me to be able to talk to students and parents that face some of the same types of issues.
I hope and pray this young man's family can find peace and comfort in such trying times.
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