
UK Football Mourns Death of Defensive Lineman Nic Smith
LEXINGTON, Ky. — The University of Kentucky announced the death of one of its football players, 20-year-old defensive lineman Nic "Happy" Smith, a redshirt freshman from Loganville, Georgia.
UK Police were called to a report of a student found deceased in a residence hall at 10:03 a.m. Monday. An initial investigation indicated that no foul play was involved, according to the university.
Smith was a sophomore in the Community Leadership and Development program in the Martin-Gatton College of Agriculture, Food and Environment. He redshirted last season after arriving as a three-star recruit and played football and basketball at Walnut Grove High School in Loganville, Georgia.
Head Coach Will Stein released a statement mourning the loss. "Today our hearts are broken," Stein said. "Our thoughts and prayers are with Nic's family, friends, teammates and everyone who knew and loved him. This is a tremendous loss for our program and university community. We will continue to support one another and honor his memory."
According to his UK Athletics bio, Smith's nickname was "Big Happ," and his aspirations included starting a food business after his football career. The university extended condolences to his family, friends and teammates and noted that support resources are available through the Office for Student Success.