This statement was released Sunday by the UCLA Athletics department.
UCLA Athletics is saddened to learn of the tragic loss of football player Nick Pasquale, who passed away early Sunday morning after being struck by a car in his hometown of San Clemente.
Pasquale, 20, was a redshirt freshman wide receiver from San Clemente High School and a valued member of the Bruin scout team who played in UCLA's season opening win against Nevada. He was an All-County defensive back/wide receiver for his high school team in 2011.
"This is a tragic loss," said UCLA head football coach Jim Mora. "Nick was an outstanding young man who had a positive impact on everyone who knew him. He was a great teammate who was loved and respected by his entire team. Our thoughts are with the Pasquale family."
UCLA Athletic Director Dan Guerrero offered support to the Pasquale family and the Bruin football team.
"The UCLA family lost a wonderful young man who represented the university, his team and his family well," Guerrero said. "Our hearts go out to the Pasquale family, and we will do everything we can to assist and support them, as well as his teammates, as they go through this unthinkable tragedy."