In Memory of Erik Walker, 1983-2006. |
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Campus Begins to Mourn As Former Niner's Body is Recovered
Oct. 26, 2006
Share your memories of Erik with us on our memorial page
MLB.com article on Erik as a professional.
Charlotte, N.C. -
Officials from the Virginia Department of Game and Inland Fisheries have confirmed the recovery and identity of the body of former Charlotte 49ers pitcher Erik Walker (Clemmons, N.C.) from the New River on Thursday afternoon. He had just turned 23 on October 15. Walker had been missing following a boating accident, in which his canoe overturned on Saturday.
Walker had begun a promising minor league career after being drafted by Tampa Bay with the third pick in the 20th round of the 2006 Major League Baseball First-Year Player Draft.
He started his path in the Devil Rays organization with the Hudson Valley Renegades last summer. He was 3-1 with a 0.48 ERA in 37 2/3 innings pitched in his first professional season, getting named to the NY-Penn League All-Star Game. Major League Baseball radio will devote an hour with Devil Rays officials and others, including Charlotte baseball coach Loren Hibbs, in memory of Walker on its national radio show Friday afternoon.
Walker had returned to campus in the fall to continue towards his degree, which he was scheduled to receive next spring.
"The University is deeply saddened to learn of the tragic loss of Erik Walker," said UNC Charlotte Chancellor Philip Dubois.
"He was an outstanding representative of us as a Charlotte 49er and as a UNC Charlotte student. While we mourn his loss as an academic and athletic community, we also extend our thoughts to Erik's family as they face his tragic loss. "
Walker finished his four-year career with Charlotte as the 49ers' all-time leader in appearances (104) and saves (26). Overall, he posted a 3.38 ERA in 170 2/3 innings pitched, walking 89 batters while striking out 188 (9.92 per 9 innings). Walker was named second team All-Conference USA in 2005.
"The entire Athletic Department, student athletes, coaches, and staff, are grieving over the loss of one of our own," said Charlotte Athletics Director Judy Rose.
"Erik was a stellar baseball pitcher who was on path to graduate in the spring of 2007. More important than his athletic prowess is that Erik was just a super person and a tremendous role model. He will be greatly missed, but never forgotten by the 49er family. Our heartfelt sympathy is extended to Erik's family."
A memorial service has been scheduled for Sunday at 1:30 p.m. at West Forsyth High School in Clemmons, N.C.
In lieu of flowers, the family has asked that donations be made to the Charlotte 49ers Baseball program.
Updates will be posted when information becomes available.
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