The Colgate community is mourning the tragic loss of a beloved friend and teammate, Brian Crockett ’13, who died last week after complications related to surgery. He was 22 years old.
“Anyone who had come in contact with Brian knows what a great person he was. He was one of the most unique personalities to ever come to Colgate. He was the emotional leader of the 2012 Patriot League championship team. I know that he has deeply affected me personally in how I live my life,” said Dan Hunt, Raiders football head coach.
Colgate Director of Athletics Victoria M. Chun’91 MA’94 remembered Crockett – known as “Bubbles” by his teammates and friends – for his positive attitude and spirit.
“We lost a very important member of our athletics family. Our thoughts and prayers go out to the Crockett family. We will never forget the way Bubbles made us feel, his infectious smile or his indomitable spirit. No. 72 will live in our hearts forever. ”
Former head coach Dick Biddle echoed the words of Hunt and Chun.
“Brian was a quiet leader. He was always positive and committed to football. He was a tough guy who never missed practice, and was just steady as a rock and not flamboyant. He let his action speak for him.”
Most recently, Crockett was working at the Williston Northampton School, a private school in western Massachusetts where he taught history and global studies and served as an assistant coach to the football, track, and wrestling teams. He started teaching at the school in the fall following his graduation from Colgate. In less than one year of teaching, Crockett became one of the school’s most beloved teachers and colleagues.
Prior to adopting the role of teacher and mentor at Williston Northampton, Crockett thrived as a student at Colgate. The university served as the stage on which Crockett displayed his inspiring self, both as a student and force on the football field. In his senior year, Crockett started in each of the Raiders’ 12 games at offensive left guard and contributed immensely to the success of the Patriot League championship team.
It was easy to recognize his talent and dedication, and he was named to the All-Patriot League first team. He was a key part of an offense that ranked in the top 10 nationally in nearly every major offensive category and set school records for total offensive yards per game (486.4) and total rushing yards (3,414).
Senior Gavin McCarney, an accomplished student-athlete and friend of Crockett, summed up the impact his teammate had on everyone he met.
“Brian will be missed not just for the person he was, but also for what he did for other people. He made an impact in the community and on campus. Brian Crockett is exactly what Colgate symbolizes: a respectful, compassionate and hardworking person who loved everyone and never asked for anything in return. He will truly be missed by everyone.”
Funeral arrangements have been set for Thursday at Union Baptist Church, 221 Myrtle Ave., Passaic, N.J. Calling hours are from 9 a.m. to noon, with the funeral following.