Photos by Jordan Snyder.
Twenty-six teams made up of UNC Charlotte students participated in the #NickStrong Soccer Tournament on Tuesday, April 21. The tournament was organized by UNC Charlotte’s women’s soccer team to support Nick Newberry, a Junior who suffered a traumatic head injury after falling down a flight of stairs in March.
Teams paid $40 each to register, raising a total of more than $1,000. Family, friends and students who wanted to watch paid a $3 entry fee. Entry fees raised between $200 to $400, according to Alex Weaver, member of the women’s soccer team.
“Every dollar counts. I’m so impressed with how it looks. The support of the community is just unbelievable,” said Weaver.
In addition to entry and registration fees, outside companies donated a total of $100 to the tournament.
Parker Cowan, close friend, fraternity brother and roommate of Newberry shared that his recovery process is moving steadily. He said Newberry is out of the coma, has his full memory and is walking and talking. He also reported that he is currently out of the hospital and is completing rehab at home.
In regards to returning to school, Cowan said, “As of now, he tells us he’s coming back in the fall, but it just depends on his rehab.”
“We have an appointment with the rehab doctor next week,” said Tabitha Newberry, Nick Newberry’s sister. “They can’t tell us about school yet because of the brain. He has to have neuropshycology testing to determine whether he’ll actually be able to do the school work. Fingers crossed and prayers up to God that he gets back soon.”
Tournament team “Frat Tricks” came in first place, winning a Zaxby’s gift card, donated by the restaurant.
“It’s mind-blowing the support we’ve gotten from his fraternity and his friends at school. It’s absolutely amazing,” said Tabitha Newberry.
