Fikayo Idowu. | Courtesy of Ohio State

Fikayo Idowu. | Courtesy of Ohio State

Tragic news reached the ears of Buckeye soccer fans and Ohio State alumni on Saturday, as word of the sudden death of junior defenseman Fikayo Idowu circulated around Columbus.

A spokesman from the university released a statement from the OSU Department of Athletics, which stated the team was devastated to learn about his passing.

“His family and loved ones are in our hearts and in our prayers during this time of grief,” read the statement.

Idowu had been a member of the men’s soccer team for the last two years.

He was majoring in health and rehabilitation sciences.

The two-time OSU Scholar-Athlete appeared in two games last season for the Scarlet and Gray.

Funeral arrangements are currently pending.

A small memorial is scheduled to be held Saturday evening at Jesse Owens Memorial Stadium, with teammates and friends of Idowu’s expected to be in attendance.