Promising Aussie golf talent dies in US
A young, talented Australian golfer has died suddenly in the US, with her family now making arrangements to bring her body home.
Melbourne woman Abbey Trinca had travelled to Daytona Beach in Florida after winning a sports scholarship to the Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University, commencing in January 2014.
The 21-year-old died unexpectedly in her sleep on February 27, with reports her housemates called authorities when the young Aussie didn’t wake up.
Abbey’s sister Lisa launched a GoFundMe page in a bid to raise money to cover the cost of bringing the 21-year-old home.
“Abbey travelled at age 17 to Florida to pursue her dream of studying and playing golf,” Lisa said.
“Abbey was a kind-hearted, passionate and inspirational girl who was looking forward to graduating at the end of 2017 and being with her family.
“Words can not describe how much our family is devastated by our loss. It would mean the world (to the Trinca family) if you could help us bring Abbey home to Melbourne where she can be laid to rest.”
Abbey had spent two years at Maribyrnong Sports Academy to complete Year 11 and 12, where she won the School Sport Victoria “Sporting Blue” award for golf, before accepting the US scholarship.
Embrey Riddle golf coach Maria Lopez issued a statement on the college’s website, describing Abbey’s death as a tragic blow.
“Abbey was very passionate about her family, her homeland of Australia, her friends and extremely proud to be an Embry-Riddle Eagle,” Ms Lopez said.
“At age 17, she came across the world from Australia to pursue her dream of academics and golf.
“She worked three jobs and competed as a collegiate athlete, all while being a Dean’s List student in pursuit of her dream.
“She loved her team and friends deeply. Abbey was so proud of them.
“She was sweet and a kind spirit that will be missed and treasured.”
The university’s director of athletics John Phillips described Abbey as an “outstanding student” and said it was “heartbreaking to see a young life cut short”.
“We will provide support and comfort for her teammates, friends and coaches as they go through the grieving process," he said.
Abbey had been in her final year of a Human Factors Psychology degree, while competing on the women's golf circuit.
Already Abbey's GoFundMe page has raised more than $20,000 to bring Abbey home to Melbourne.
To donate CLICK HERE
