The sports community is in mourning as Karenna Groff, the esteemed recipient of the 2022 NCAA Woman of the Year award, tragically lost her life in a plane crash in upstate New York. Groff, a former soccer player at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT), was one of six victims in this devastating incident, as confirmed in a statement from her family.
The fatal accident occurred on Saturday afternoon when a twin-engine turboprop plane went down approximately ten miles from the Columbia County Airport, near the town of Copake, New York. Among the five other victims were Groff's partner, James Santoro, who had plans to propose to her this summer, and her family members: parents Joy Saini and Michael Groff, brother Jared Groff, and his partner Alexia Couyutas Duarte.
Karenna Groff was a standout athlete, having served as the captain for MIT's Division III soccer team. She concluded her collegiate career ranked second all-time in goals and points for the school and was recognized as a third-team All-American during her final season. The NCAA Woman of the Year award, which has been awarded annually since 1991, celebrates exceptional female student-athletes and is a prestigious honor that has previously been bestowed upon notable figures such as Basketball Hall of Famer Rebecca Lobo and Olympic gold medalist Kimberly Black.
In their statement, the family expressed their sorrow and requested privacy during this heart-wrenching time, emphasizing that they would remember the victims as “six brilliant, dynamic and loving people.” The family has indicated that further details regarding funerals and memorials will be shared soon.
During a press briefing on Sunday, the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) provided insights into the circumstances surrounding the crash. The pilot had reported a missed approach and requested guidance for another approach. As the pilot attempted to return to the airport, radar indicated a low altitude alert, and despite efforts from air traffic control to establish communication, there was no response from the pilot.
The aircraft had departed from Westchester County Airport en route to Columbia County Airport before crashing into a flat agricultural field at a high rate of descent. While the NTSB has not disclosed the identity of the pilot, the family confirmed that Michael Groff, Karenna's father, was an experienced pilot who had developed a passion for flying at a young age.
The NTSB has promised to release more information regarding the crash on Monday afternoon, as the investigation continues. The loss of Karenna Groff and her family has left a profound impact on the community, and tributes are expected to pour in from friends, teammates, and fellow athletes as they remember her legacy and contributions to sports and medicine.
As the family navigates this incredibly difficult time, the sports community stands united in support, honoring the memory of a remarkable athlete and a cherished individual.
