Memories of a star athlete, fine young man
There are many reasons that so many people flocked to the Batavia High School gymnasium Sunday night for an impromptu memorial for Kevin J. Bryant, who had just lost his life as a result of a tragic rafting accident in Colorado earlier in the week. Residents came together at a time of great sadness, but also to show gratitude for the life of a 21-year-old man who provided plenty of thrills on the basketball court.
Mostly, it was to remember a young man who was destined to be successful in life as well because he developed excellent life and personal skills to complement his athletic skills as a standout basketball player at Batavia High School.
It was also a reminder that summer vacation is upon us, a time when we all express our hopes for the safety of our children with words of caution as they leave the classrooms for three months of work and leisure.
It is especially difficult to deal with the passing of Bryant, knowing he had just graduated from Illinois Wesleyan University, where he also played basketball, with a job secured in California and a bright future ahead. Those who knew him well would say he was fearless and enjoyed the adventure that an activity like whitewater rafting provides. Those traits carried Kevin Bryant far in his short life, and no one can predict an accident that can take it all away so quickly.
We all know young people like Kevin Bryant in our communities, who are stars on and off the field of athletic endeavor. And the loss of any of our young people -- to the war in Iraq, to an illness, to a senseless drunk-driving incident, to a work-related accident, or to a freak accident -- is one of the most difficult things a community can face. Kevin Bryant's loss garners special attention because he had special athletic skills and left favorable impressions with everyone who was fortunate enough to have known him and, even more so, to have called him a friend.
Many high school basketball players throughout the suburbs got to know Kevin Bryant in having played against him. More so than any other prep activity, our local athletes are in the public eye almost every night and weekend. The loss of any young person is tragic, but a star basketball player is out there for people in other communities to see and get to know.
Exciting basketball skills and uncanny leadership qualities -- that is what Kevin Bryant left behind for most of us to reflect. For his family and close friends, he leaves behind so much more.
Yes, the Bryant family is joined at the hip with basketball because of past star players at West Aurora High School and Kevin's brother, David, being a key player entering his senior season at Batavia High School. But this is more about losing a loving son, brother and nephew. It is a tragedy none of us ever wants to face. It is that mysterious part of life for which there are no answers. Why Kevin Bryant, and why now? We don't know why. We only know what he leaves behind -- memories of a wonderful athlete and an even more wonderful young man.