Daughter of Ex The New England Revolution Goalkeeper Brad Knighton tragically died in a boating accident in South Carolina on Wednesday, family and officials confirmed. She was only 11 years old.
Olivia Knighton was killed in a boating accident on the Intracoastal Waterway in Little River when the 23-foot boat she was on was “shook by a large wake,” caused by another passing boat. South Carolina Department of Natural Resources said on Thursday.
New England Revolution goalkeeper Brad Knighton, #18, covers the ball during the match between the New England Revolution and Charlotte FC on April 16, 2022 at Gillette Stadium in Foxboro, Massachusetts. (Fred Kfoury III/Icon Sportswire via Getty Images)
According to the authorities, the fire started because all 12 passengers on board the boat went overboard.
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Olivia was hit by a boat propeller and later died as a result of her injuries. No other injuries were reported.
Knighton, who retired from Major League Soccer Earlier this year, confirmed her daughter’s death with a statement posted on social media.
“There are no words to describe the depth of our grief and sorrow at this moment.” Knighton wrote.
“Our family is still reeling from the sudden and tragic loss of our beautiful and talented daughter Olivia in an unfortunate boating accident yesterday. We all still can’t believe that her bright and pure light was taken from us so suddenly.”
New England goalkeeper Brad Knighton, #18, warms up before the start of the MLS match between the New England Revolution and Atlanta United FC on July 17, 2021 at Mercedes-Benz Stadium in Atlanta. (Rich von Biberstein/Icon Sportswire via Getty Images)
“One way or another, we’ll get through this together as a family.”
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Knighton said his daughter loved soccer and the Revolution, where she played for most of her professional career. The team also released a statement on social media on Thursday.
“Olivia was a bright and shining light who was a beloved presence around Revolution throughout her life, always bringing a warm smile and laughter to Gillette Stadium and our training facility when she visited,” the football club said.
New England Revolution goalkeeper Brad Knighton, #18, catches a cross during the match between New England Revolution and Chicago Fire FC on March 7, 2020 at Gillette Stadium in Foxboro, Massachusetts. (Fred Kfoury III/Icon Sportswire via Getty Images)
“His sudden loss leaves a deep hole in our hearts.”
gave New England Patriots He also tweeted his condolences.
“We are heartbroken by this devastating news and extend our sincere condolences to Knighton’s family and the Revolution organization.”
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Knighton announced his retirement in January after a 16-year career. He played 12 seasons over two stints in New England, a club record. He helped the Revolution reach the MLS Cup finals in 2007 and 2014.
Zlatan Ibrahimovic, #9 of the Los Angeles Galaxy takes a shot on goal and Brad Knighton, #18 of the New England Revolution makes a big save during the Los Angeles Galaxy’s MLS match against the New England Revolution at Dignity Health Sports Park on June 2, 2019 in Carson, California. New England Revolution won this match 2-1. (Sean Clark/Getty Images)
With Knighton between the posts, New England was also awarded the Supporters’ Shield for having the best regular season record in 2021.
He is currently serving as the Under-17 Head Coach of Revolution Academy.
Source by [Fox News]
