Jan. 7, 2009
ORLANDO, Fla. (UCFAthletics.com) - A candlelight vigil for former UCF student-athlete Sinan Sudas, who passed away last week, is planned for Friday from 5:30-6 p.m. at the Reflection Pond on campus. Sinan was a member of the UCF men's tennis team from 2004-08. While completing his bachelor's degree, he worked as a student assistant in the UCF sports marketing office this past fall.
Those who attend the memorial service are encouraged to write and bring a letter that can be mailed to Sinan's family in Turkey. UCF Athletics will translate the letters.
The Reflection Pond is located at the center of campus, behind Millican Hall and in front of the library.
In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to support the UCF men's tennis program. Sinan was a four-year letterwinner for the Knights and head coach Bobby Cashman. As a senior in 2007-08, he earned a spot on the Conference USA Commissioner's Academic Honor Roll.
Following his sophomore campaign, Sinan was selected to the All-C-USA Second Team and also garnered Intercollegiate Tennis Association Scholar-Athlete honors. As a freshman in 2004-05, Sinan helped the Knights earn a spot in the NCAA Championship and was named to the All-Atlantic Sun Freshman Team.
While working in the marketing office, Sinan assisted with promoting football and men's basketball games to community members and students.
After the candlelight vigil, attendees are invited to head to Rivals Sports Bar and Grille on Alafaya Trail in Oviedo. The restaurant was one of Sinan's favorite locations.