Foundation honors CU quarterback's legacy
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Dominiq Ponder. Photo: University of Colorado Boulder
The family of University of Colorado quarterback Dominiq Ponder, who died in a car crash last month, has launched a foundation in his honor to support student-athletes and promote responsible decision-making.
The latest: The Dominiq Ponder 722 Foundation aims to support student-athletes, with funds going toward scholarships for players who demonstrate "resilience and character, community awareness initiatives about responsible decision-making, and support for children's hospitals."
Zoom in: The foundation's name reflects Ponder's jersey change from No. 22 to No. 7, a symbol of his journey from walk-on to leader in Colorado's quarterback room.
Catch up quick: Ponder was killed in a single-car accident in Boulder County on March 1.
- Investigators said speed was a factor, and an autopsy report found his blood-alcohol level was twice the legal limit.
Between the lines: Ponder's mother, Catrina Hughes, said she hopes the foundation encourages college athletes to look out for one another and feel comfortable seeking help.
- "If anything good can come from this loss, it's the conversations it can start about responsible decision-making, supporting young adults, and making good choices even in ordinary moments," Hughes said. "One bad decision can alter everything."
What they're saying: "What matters most to me is who Dominiq was as a person," Hughes said. "He was a determined student-athlete, a leader, and someone with a huge heart who fiercely loved his family, his teammates, and the game of football."
Those who wish to support the foundation can visit its GoFundMe page.