Oh My God!! Big Steve has passed away!

[SC_Flyer]

I shared the news regarding Steve at lunch in Columbia, SC with my co-workers, who have become surrogate UD fans due to my obsession. They were all saddened by the news and thought he had nothing but upside on the basketball court and remembered how hard he played.

[flyerfanatic86]

I gave it a day, but I still don't have any words. Just such a terribly sad thing to happen to such a good guy.

[lhsgolf19]

University of Dayton @univofdayton

The UD community is invited to join in prayer for Steve & his family at 5 p.m. May 16, in the Chapel.

[lhsgolf19]

Dayton Basketball Verified account 
‏@DaytonMBB
Prayer service for Steve McElvene to be held Monday at UD #Prayfor5

http://daytonflyers.com/news/2016/5/...ld-monday.aspx

[C-time]

Originally Posted by lhsgolf19 Dayton Basketball Verified account  ‏@DaytonMBB Prayer service for Steve McElvene to be held Monday at UD #Prayfor5 http://daytonflyers.com/news/2016/5/...ld-monday.aspx

Also in that link from UD is a link to a Go Fund Me page that UD started to help Steve's family with expenses at this time. It's got $1,250 in just five hours. I don't know his family situation but let's all make sure that they don't have to worry about money at this horrible time.

https://www.gofundme.com/Steve-5

[Marysville Flyer]

As I've gotten older, somewhere along the line I started looking at the Dayton Flyers differently. Not sure when the switch occurred but my favorite players weren't based on how skilled they were but much more on who they were personally and how they played when given the opportunity.

Needless to say Big Steve instantly became a favorite player. I'm not sure when I last saw a player with his skill play with such joy, passion, and humility.

Right now I can't even fathom going to another game. What a terrible shame for his family, friends and his teammates which I'm sure were both to him.

Our prayers go out to his family.

[TommyGola]

Originally Posted by Marysville Flyer As I've gotten older, somewhere along the line I started looking at the Dayton Flyers differently. Not sure when the switch occurred but my favorite players weren't based on how skilled they were but much more on who they were personally and how they played when given the opportunity. Needless to say Big Steve instantly became a favorite player. I'm not sure when I last saw a player with his skill play with such joy, passion, and humility. Right now I can't even fathom going to another game. What a terrible shame for his family, friends and his teammates which I'm sure were both to him. Our prayers go out to his family.

Marysville Flyer: I think it was that captivating smile on Steve's face. When I watched Steve take the court for the first time at the Arena, you could see that he was the happiest young man on earth as he lived out his dream. His dream has been cut short, but like Chris Daniels, his legacy will live on for generations of Flyer fans.

[AustinFlyer]

Heard the news while on a work call. I was in shock and speechless. The other person on the call thought I had dropped off. I waited until tonight before getting on UDP to avoid getting choked up reading the comments. Didn't work.

[AustinFlyer]

Originally Posted by Havoc City I just read about the sad and tragic death of Steve McElvene on the VCU message board. Our program went through this back in 1989 when our senior forward, Michael Brown, collapsed and died during practice. Many of us still remember that young man, and we know how badly it can hurt to lose a player in such a manner. Our thoughts and prayers and with his family and the entire Dayton community. We are grieving with you from RVA.

Thank you. It was nice of you to join UDPride just to post that.

[TheDuke2003]

RIP Big Steve. It was a joy to watch him play the game with such fire and emotion. Only a redshirt freshman and it seemed like he was the soul of the team. He will be missed by us fans and I can only offer my deepest sympathies to his friends and family.

[jack72]

Were the autopsy results on Steve ever revealed?

My brother, who is a physician and UD grad, wrote me the following:
"Guessing that aortic aneurysm is also a good possibility, since it's so common in the tallest basketball players with the largest wingspans, from Marfan's syndrome or homocystinuria."

People with Marfan's tend to be tall, and thin, with long arms, legs, fingers and toes. They also typically have flexible joints and scoliosis. The most serious complications involve the heart and aorta with an increased risk of mitral valve prolapse and aortic aneurysm.

An increased homocysteine level is associated with a higher risk of strokes.

[Figgie123]

Originally Posted by jack72 Were the autopsy results on Steve ever revealed?

No foul play, cause and manner of death still pending.

Link to Allen County Coroner Press Release

[Windy City Flyer]

This tragedy is really tough. In an era where players have a sense of entitlement Big Steve showed so much more. With the support of his teammates, coaches, UD community and family he embraced what it takes to be a Division One athlete. He represented the culture of "True Team." You can tell by the many comments made by his coaches & teammates that this young man had a gift with people. I can think of a number of very highly touted Chicago area athletes that had more talent than Big Steve. Many of which will only be remembered for their potential but not the impact they had on their the court, on campus or in their community. We were fortunate to have experienced Big Steve for one season. His legacy should be one of being an example of how a Flyer should be on and off the court. UD should retire #5, and never forget the impact he had in such a short time.

[Sea Bass]

Dayton Flyers coach Archie Miller spoke publicly about McElvene, a 6-foot-11 center who spent two years at the University of Dayton, for the first time since his death May 12 at his family’s home in Fort Wayne. Miller stood in front of the church with his four seniors behind him: Charles Cooke, Kendall Pollard, Scoochie Smith and Kyle Davis. The rest of the team — all the players were there, including former guard Jordan Sibert — sat in the front rows. Here’s an excerpt from a speech that caused Miller to break down in tears at one point. He got several pats on the back from his players before continuining.

http://www.daytondailynews.com/news/...monster/nrRJK/

[st marys]

[Sea Bass]

video of Archie speaking at the service for Steve

http://www.whio.com/videos/news/flye...elvene/vDqnjp/

[C-time]

Originally Posted by st marys

Great adjustment to the logo. Would look great on a Navy blue or black t-shirt if the "5" was the only thing in white and was maybe just a little bigger so it really stands out.

[C-time]

Originally Posted by Sea Bass video of Archie speaking at the service for Steve http://www.whio.com/videos/news/flye...elvene/vDqnjp/

And with that I'm now crying. RIP BIG STEVE

[THirt]

Originally Posted by st marys

Very well done!
Posted via Mobile Device

[Sea Bass]

A good life, well-lived cannot be merely illustrated by snapshots of happy moments, that just sounds like a holiday advert and we all know no one looks that good on their holiday, especially after a week of sangrias, poorly applied sun cream and a lot of fried food. No, a good life well-lived knows joy and pain, struggle and peace, tears and laughter. Just because you’re struggling right now does not mean you’re a failure, it means you’re human and that you’re living a human story, a beautiful human story that has the potential to inspire and change lives. Now this isn’t the bit where I tell you how you should be thankful for your pain, or how God only gives us what we can handle or everything happens for a reason – I hate those phrases and I don’t believe any of them are true. Grief in itself is meaningless, it contributes nothing to the world. But you have the power to give meaning to your grief in the way you respond to it.

http://saltwaterandhoney.org/blog/a-...o-the-grieving

[charlestonflyer15]

Originally Posted by st marys

Love this. This should be used as the logo at mid court for the next three years.

[st marys]

@charlestonflyer15 or at least a patch that could be worn on the players jerseys.

[N2663R]

Originally Posted by st marys

OUTSTANDING! Center court for sure for the next 3 years and UD should sell this logo on merchandise to fund a scholarship in Steve's name.

[NCkevi]

Inside College Hoops: Dayton's Archie Miller on the death of Steve McElvene
It's been three weeks since the Flyers lost their promising 20-year-old center
Gary Parrish

http://www.cbssports.com/college-bas...teve-mcelvene/

[N2663R]

As much as I think most everyone would agree that the Flyer logo with the "5" is a great idea, I have little hope that it will actually happen. In lieu of that, I think a great idea would be to take Steve's jersey and drape it over the same seat on the bench for every game, home and away, for the next 3 years. Of course, no one would sit in that seat during the game, but "Steve would be there". In 3 years, that jersey would then be presented to Steve's mom on Senior Night.

Just a thought -

[UDEE79]

Originally Posted by N2663R As much as I think most everyone would agree that the Flyer logo with the "5" is a great idea, I have little hope that it will actually happen. In lieu of that, I think a great idea would be to take Steve's jersey and drape it over the same seat on the bench for every game, home and away, for the next 3 years. Of course, no one would sit in that seat during the game, but "Steve would be there". In 3 years, that jersey would then be presented to Steve's mom on Senior Night. Just a thought -

That's an great idea N2663R. As to the five logo my sister has already been approached by groups interested in deing something with it next season.
Posted via Mobile Device

[flybye]

I suggest after the player intros they go to the student section and hold there hands at a HIGH 5 and the rest of the Arena does the same. A sign of unity and respect for our Boy that we can all join in.

[BRob2Perryman3]

I agree with anything and everything that keeps Steve a member of the program for the next 3 years. I refuse to talk about him in the past tense. Steve IS and always WILL be a Flyer. The Uni draped on a chair and presented to his family on Senior Night is the simplest and smartest idea ive ever heard. Make this happen UD.

[m21eagle45]

I really think we should stop telling the team what they should do to honor Big Steve. They knew him best, and they will know what to do to honor him in a way that Big Steve would approve. Let's let them figure this out.

[superfan99]

Originally Posted by m21eagle45 I really think we should stop telling the team what they should do to honor Big Steve. They knew him best, and they will know what to do to honor him in a way that Big Steve would approve. Let's let them figure this out.

I wish there was a "Boo!" button to go along with the "Thanks" button.

I haven't read any of this thread as people telling the team what they SHOULD do. I just see people that are fans of the team, that are mourning the loss of a young man, listing ideas that would honor him. Some of the ideas have been great. Everyone is saddened by the loss of Big Steve. I am surprised by how many people thanked the message, because I see no harm in any of the ideas people have suggested.

[C-time]

Originally Posted by m21eagle45 I really think we should stop telling the team what they should do to honor Big Steve. They knew him best, and they will know what to do to honor him in a way that Big Steve would approve. Let's let them figure this out.

Originally Posted by superfan99 I wish there was a "Boo!" button to go along with the "Thanks" button. I haven't read any of this thread as people telling the team what they SHOULD do. I just see people that are fans of the team, that are mourning the loss of a young man, listing ideas that would honor him. Some of the ideas have been great. Everyone is saddened by the loss of Big Steve. I am surprised by how many people thanked the message, because I see no harm in any of the ideas people have suggested.

I thanked m21eagle45's post because I think it is the more likely than the ideas that have been presented. The team will find a way to visually recognize Steve, but I think it may be less pronounced/visible than changing the midcourt logo or leaving an open seat with his jersey hanging on it. What I think is most likely is a simple black patch with a 5 or Steve on the shoulder of the jersey. The coaches and players will do what they feel comfortable with to honor Steve while also being able to go out and play at a high level each night.

While all of these obvious visual remembrances are thoughtful ideas I think the best way for them to honor Steve is to play with the joy and effort that he played with every single night.

[BRob2Perryman3]

Originally Posted by superfan99 I wish there was a "Boo!" button to go along with the "Thanks" button. I haven't read any of this thread as people telling the team what they SHOULD do. I just see people that are fans of the team, that are mourning the loss of a young man, listing ideas that would honor him. Some of the ideas have been great. Everyone is saddened by the loss of Big Steve. I am surprised by how many people thanked the message, because I see no harm in any of the ideas people have suggested.

Im submitting a request to thank this more then once. If you looked at who "thanked" that scolding "post" you will take it with a grain of salt, like i did

[BRob2Perryman3]

Message boards are for opinions, suggestions and open conversation. God forbid rabid fans of this team offer suggestions for a beloved member of the team. I cried when i heard Steve died, just like when Chris died. You can bet your bottom dollar im not done suggesting how to remember this incredible young man.

#Flyertilidie #RedandColumbiaBlueinmyveins

[m21eagle45]

Originally Posted by superfan99 I wish there was a "Boo!" button to go along with the "Thanks" button. I haven't read any of this thread as people telling the team what they SHOULD do. I just see people that are fans of the team, that are mourning the loss of a young man, listing ideas that would honor him. Some of the ideas have been great. Everyone is saddened by the loss of Big Steve. I am surprised by how many people thanked the message, because I see no harm in any of the ideas people have suggested.

Originally Posted by BRob2Perryman3 I agree with anything and everything that keeps Steve a member of the program for the next 3 years. I refuse to talk about him in the past tense. Steve IS and always WILL be a Flyer. The Uni draped on a chair and presented to his family on Senior Night is the simplest and smartest idea ive ever heard. Make this happen UD.

Originally Posted by flybye I suggest after the player intros they go to the student section and hold there hands at a HIGH 5 and the rest of the Arena does the same. A sign of unity and respect for our Boy that we can all join in.

Originally Posted by Windy City Flyer This tragedy is really tough. In an era where players have a sense of entitlement Big Steve showed so much more. With the support of his teammates, coaches, UD community and family he embraced what it takes to be a Division One athlete. He represented the culture of "True Team." You can tell by the many comments made by his coaches & teammates that this young man had a gift with people. I can think of a number of very highly touted Chicago area athletes that had more talent than Big Steve. Many of which will only be remembered for their potential but not the impact they had on their the court, on campus or in their community. We were fortunate to have experienced Big Steve for one season. His legacy should be one of being an example of how a Flyer should be on and off the court. UD should retire #5, and never forget the impact he had in such a short time.

There are three quick examples of things they "SHOULD" do, need to "make it happen" or "they" meaning players should do something.

[CE80]

Leave the bickering out of this thread.

[superfan99]

M21Eagle...we will just have to agree to disagree.

IMO, even the stuff you "bolded" is just people offering opinion and suggestions of ways we could honor Steve. Nobody is forcing anything. I guess you see it differently.

Much ado about nothing IMO.

[FLYER5]

Let's show this thread its due respect and show some grace, please. Lots of emotion that could go without the criticism. Appreciate everyone's way of presenting a memorial.

[Flyer Al]

http://www.mydaytondailynews.com/new...lvene-e/nr2Tx/

Reactions from the four Seniors.

[Lifelong Flyer Fan]

Autopsy results released. http://www.daytondailynews.com/news/...ns-unde/nrMSR/

[TommyGola]

From the Mayo Clinic:

Hypertrophic cardiomyopathy (HCM) is a disease in which the heart muscle (myocardium) becomes abnormally thick (hypertrophied). The thickened heart muscle can make it harder for the heart to pump blood.

Hypertrophic cardiomyopathy often goes undiagnosed because many people with the disease have few, if any, symptoms and can lead normal lives with no significant problems. However, in a small number of people with HCM, the thickened heart muscle can cause shortness of breath, chest pain or problems in the heart's electrical system, resulting in life-threatening abnormal heart rhythms (arrhythmias).

[jack72]

I see Oklahoma State just lost a big kid to an enlarged heart.

[Runnin' Rebel]

http://news-sentinel.com/sports/Notr...of--Big-Steve-