Colorado Buffaloes Honor Late Teammate Dominiq Ponder
BOULDER, Colo. (AP) — The Colorado Buffaloes football team gathered on Monday not only to commence spring practice but also to honor their late teammate, Dominiq Ponder, who tragically lost his life in a car accident early Sunday morning at the age of 23. During an emotional session, players reminisced about Ponder’s infectious work ethic and his amiable personality, sharing anecdotes such as the time he jumped a 10-foot fence to help a fellow player access a hot tub while rehabilitating an injury.
Team’s Decision to Practice
Under Coach Deion Sanders, the squad opted to proceed with their first spring practice, despite being given the option to refrain from attending. The decision was made collectively after an emergency meeting on Sunday, where the team came together to support one another in their grief. Ponder was a significant presence in their thoughts throughout the practice as teammates rallied together, concluding their huddle with heartfelt chants of “Dom.” Running back, DeKalon Taylor, expressed that the sentiment brought a sense of energy to the practice, almost as if Ponder was with them in spirit.
Tragic News and Reactions
News of Ponder’s untimely death reached the players at various times throughout the day, with some learning of it after attending church. Offensive coordinator Brennan Marion found himself in a state of shock when he received a call from Ponder’s father while he was spending time with his own child, stating,
“I couldn’t move. I was speechless.”
According to authorities, Ponder was driving a 2023 Tesla when he lost control on a curve, crashed into a guardrail, struck a pole, and rolled down an embankment, with initial investigations indicating that speed may have contributed to the accident. He was pronounced dead at the scene.
Coach’s Condolences
Coach Sanders expressed his condolences on social media, saying,
“God please comfort the Ponder family, friends & loved ones. Dom was one of my favorites! He was loved, respected & a born leader… Let’s pray for all that knew him and had the opportunity to be in his presence. Lord you’re receiving a good one.”
He is scheduled to address the media on Friday.
Team’s Reflection and Commitment
Reflecting on the team’s performance, offensive lineman Yahya Attia shared the struggle of coming to terms with their loss, stating,
“It’s sad not being able to protect him (Ponder) off the field.”
Taylor added to this sentiment, recalling how only days prior, Ponder had shown off a new tattoo, emphasizing the surreal nature of practicing without him. Despite the heaviness at first, the team nonetheless honored Ponder by pushing themselves, focusing on executing plays at full speed—just as Ponder would have expected.
Ponder, who transferred from Bethune-Cookman University, was not just a backup quarterback; he was someone who led by example, motivating others with his relentless dedication. Coach Marion remarked on how rare it is to find a player like him who epitomizes hard work, stating,
“You had to tell Dom to stop working so hard. Just being around a kid like that, his energy was contagious.”
Moving Forward Together
While Monday’s practice was not structured in the usual competitive sense, it served as an essential moment for the team to bond and move forward together. Marion noted a shift in their coaching style, choosing to approach the day with a nurturing mindset rather than the typical intensity expected in such settings. Defensive back Ben Finneseth, who had grown close to Ponder, articulated the collective determination moving forward, emphasizing that every effort will carry Ponder’s memory. He recounted how, a few weeks prior, they had shared a fun moment at their apartment complex, with Ponder once again demonstrating his willingness to help teammates.
“Whatever we needed,” Finneseth remarked, reflecting the spirit of camaraderie Ponder brought to the team. Similarly, defensive back RJ Johnson emphasized the importance of this season, stating,
“We have to play for Dom.”
As the Buffaloes continue to process their grief, they carry with them Ponder’s spirit and legacy, determined to honor him with their dedication and passion for the game.
