What happened to Julian Naumenko? Community mourns as Rutgers University-Camden football player dies

The Rutgers University-Camden community and the Ukrainian Orthodox Church in the United States are mourning the tragic loss of Julian Naumenko, a promising 19-year-old football player and nursing student. Julian, known for his exceptional talent and leadership on the field, died unexpectedly, leaving his family, friends, teammates and parish deeply saddened. The exact cause behind Julian Naumenko’s death has not been identified.

Julian, a freshman goalie from Hatboro, PA, had recently begun his journey at Rutgers-Camden. According to Foot boomhe was a standout at Archbishop Wood High School, where his outstanding performances as captain earned him All-PCL honors twice and a reputation as one of the best goaltenders in his league.

In addition to his high school achievements, Julian was a proud Ukrainian-American who dedicated a decade to competing for the Ukrainian national club team and represented his heritage with pride. His Rutgers-Camden coach shared:

“Julian had the potential to build a remarkable career with us… He was athletic, commanding in the box and possessed incredible shot-stopping ability. His loss is deeply felt by all who had the privilege of knowing him.”

The church’s announcement read:

“On behalf of His Eminence Metropolitan Antony and His Eminence Archbishop Daniel, the Consistory of the Ukrainian Orthodox Church in the USA extends heartfelt condolences and prayerful support to the families of the recently deceased servants of God: Julian Naumenko, beloved son of Very Rev. Fr. Taras Naumenko and Pani Matka Laura Naumenko, whose sudden passing has brought deep sorrow to his family, friends and parish community.”

Many people paid their respects and mourned the loss of Julian in the comments

Gone way too soon, gonna miss you Julian.

Our hearts are broken, but love and friendship remain. Sending condolences to Julian’s mother, father and family. Sending prayers of strength and comfort to Julian’s family at Penn Street and for the entire team sincerely Cathy Jacobo (one of the Penn st moms) and fam

Thoughts and prayers to Julian, his family and the RUC family

Rest in peace, loved you like a brother

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More about Julian Naumenko

Julian Naumenko was a talented soccer player and dedicated nursing student whose promising life was tragically cut short. Born on November 21, 2005 in Hatboro, Pennsylvania, Julian was the son of Laura and Very Rev. Fr. Taras Naumenko.

At just 19 years old, he was a freshman at Rutgers University-Camden, where he had joined the Scarlet Raptors’ soccer program as a goaltender for the 2024 season.

Standing tall at 6’2″ and weighing 185 pounds, Julian was a formidable presence on the football field. During his high school years at Archbishop Wood, he earned his spot as a football letterman and served as team captain his final two seasons. His exceptional skills between the posts provided him accolades, including a spot on the All-PCL team twice and recognition on the All-Rookie team.

Julian’s passion for soccer extended beyond high school as he dedicated ten years to playing for the Ukrainian national team, proudly representing his heritage. His athleticism, leadership and shot-stopping abilities made him a valuable addition to the Rutgers-Camden program.

Julian’s ambitions were not limited to football. He was a nurse with plans to build a career in the healthcare field. He had a strong drive to help others and showed the same dedication in his studies as he did on the field. When not busy with school or soccer, Julian enjoyed traveling, spending time at the gym, and exploring new experiences.