SHIPPENSBURG, Pa. — The Shippensburg University community is mourning the death of football coach Mark Maciejewski's 13-year-old son, Levi.
A statement from Maciejewski family posted on the football team page of the university athletics website Wednesday night confirmed Levi Maciejewski's death.
"On behalf of the Maciejewski family, it is with profound sadness to share that yesterday, August 20th, 2024, our sweet Levi James went to be in the arms of Jesus," the statement said. "Mark, Tricia, and Brady are appreciative of the tremendous outpouring of support from our community. Their hearts are broken, as we know the community is hurting too. Together, we will get through one day at a time. Please pray for the Maciejewski family, as they begin to navigate through the hardest journey."
The university's statement asked the Shippensburg community for patience and understanding, and to respect the Maciejewski family's privacy as they mourn their loss.
"We know this strong community is standing ready and waiting to help in any way you can, right now what they need is prayers," the statement said.
The university said it has created an email account "where you can send us your Levi stories and photos that you have of the countless memories that you shared with him over the years."
The email address is levi.j.maciejewski@gmail.com, the university said.
"As any unmet needs arise, we will reach out and share a care plan that you can help with," the statement concludes. "Please hug your children tight, tell them you love them, and pray over our dear friends."
Mark Maciejewski is a 1992 Shippensburg University graduate who has been a member of the Red Raiders' coaching staff since 2000. He was promoted to head coach in 2011.
Shippensburg is scheduled to open the 2024 football season at American International on September 7. The Raiders return home to face Clarion on Sept. 14.
