April 8, 2008

Stony Brook, N.Y. - Stony Brook University's Department of Athletics is mourning the loss of former football standout Ralph Menendez '00. He died suddenly on March 20 at the age of 29. Menendez is survived by his parents Ralph and Danielle Menendez, brothers Dale and Nathalo and his nine-year old daughter Adia.

One of the great running backs of all-time at Stony Brook, Menendez still holds the school career rushing record of 2,623 yards. He also holds the school mark for career carries (457) and is third in both career TDs (22) and career rushing TDs (20). In 1999 Menendez rushed for 207 yards against Sacred Heart, the second-highest single-game total at Stony Brook and one of just three 200-yard rushing games currently in the SBU record books. In all he had nine 100-yard rushing games in his career to tie another school record.

Menendez is also a cousin of a current Stony Brook student-athlete, junior Robert Dyer (Selden, N.Y.). Dyer is a member of the Seawolf baseball team.

In memory of Ralph, a college trust fund has been created to support Adia. For those who would like to contribute to the Adia Menendez College Fund, please make checks payable to the Adia Menendez College Fund, c/o Mrs. Leisa Sollazzo, 111 Park Road, Riverhead, NY 11901. Mrs. Sollazzo is Ralph's aunt.