The York University sport and recreation community is mourning the loss of student-athlete Sejoan Navaratnarajah, who died suddenly on Wednesday, Sept. 25.
Navaratnarajah of Scarborough, Ont., came to York University in 2011 and was enrolled in the Kinesiology and Health Science Program in the Faculty of Health. He also tried out for the Lions men’s volleyball team that year and made the squad as a walk-on, spending two seasons with the team.
Sejoan Navaratnarajah
“Sejoan pleasantly surprised the coaching staff with his overall ability and it was a pleasure to have him on our team,” said Wally Dybaa, men’s volleyball head coach. “Even when not asked, he was always more than willing to make the contributions necessary to further the success of the team. In his own way, he has impacted all of us.”
“Sejoan had the gift of putting a smile on everyone’s face simply by putting one on his,” said Karim Khalil, captain of the Lions men’s volleyball team from 2011-13. “He was a down-to-earth guy who was a joy to be around with his contagious laugh and positive attitude. He was a great teammate but, more importantly, a loyal friend. Sejoan will be remembered for many things, most notably for myself and my teammates as a beloved brother to us all.”
“On behalf of the Lions family, I express my deepest condolences to everyone who lost a son, brother and friend with the passing of Sejoan,” said Jennifer Myers, director of Sport & Recreation. “Losing a member of the Lions family is a difficult time for all of us, and his presence will be missed by all who knew him.”
A memorial service has taken place.