Breaking News: UNC Remembers Beloved Strength Coach Nick Vetell After Fatal Car Crash
May 20 , 2025North Carolina — May 19, 2025 — According to WRAL News, the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill is mourning the sudden and heartbreaking loss of Domminick “Nick” Vetell, a respected former assistant strength and conditioning coach for Olympic sports. Vetell, 32, died in a car, leaving behind a wife and a young daughter.
Colleagues and athletes widely admired Vetell for his dedication, energy, and compassion. From 2019 until this year, he worked closely with the university’s wrestling, swimming, and tennis programs, playing a crucial role in developing and recovering countless student-athletes. Even after moving on to a role at Fort Bragg, he remained a visible and supportive presence at UNC events.
“Nick never really left,” said associate wrestling coach Tony Ramos. “He always came back—to senior nights, to cheer from the stands at championships—he was committed to the athletes he helped shape.”
Ramos, who described Vetell as a close friend, emphasized his tireless work ethic and unwavering support. “He showed up early, stayed late, and was always ready to help—especially for athletes recovering from injury. He brought energy and heart to everything he did.”
Tar Heel Strength honored Vetell on social media, writing, “Nick touched countless lives with his strength, kindness, and unwavering spirit. His legacy will live on in the hearts of all who knew him.”
Vetell earned both his bachelor’s and master’s degrees from Appalachian State University, where he also competed in wrestling. His background and passion for sports performance made him an essential figure in UNC athletics.
A GoFundMe campaign has been launched by friends to support his family. Meanwhile, the driver involved in the crash that claimed Vetell’s life has been charged with misdemeanor death by vehicle as the investigation continues.
UNC and its athletics community continue to honor the memory of a coach whose impact went far beyond training sessions—someone who inspired, encouraged, and deeply cared for the athletes around him.
Our thoughts are with the friends, family, and loved ones of the deceased.
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Notes: Our team created this post using secondary sources and has not independently verified all the facts surrounding the accident. If you find any incorrect details, please contact the Ramsay Law Firm so we can update the post with the most accurate information. This post will be removed if requested.
Disclaimer: The information provided in this post is not intended to be legal or medical advice and is not a solicitation for business. The photograph used in this post is not representative of this accident. If you are injured in an accident, seek medical attention immediately, then speak to a North Carolina personal injury lawyer as soon as possible.
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