COLUMBUS, Ohio – It is with immense sadness that Capital University, Capital Athletics, and Capital Football share the news of the death of rising sophomore, Mike Hooffstetter. 

Mike tragically passed away on Sunday, July 24, while swimming with friends in Lake Michigan. He was just 19 years old. 

"The death of any member of the Capital Family is difficult, but it's especially hard to accept when it's a student who had so much life ahead of him," said President Dave Kaufman. "Mike shone academically and athletically. Even in just his first year as a football player, he demonstrated a strong commitment to the team and an unwavering dedication to his teammates."

"Mike was an outstanding young man, great teammate, great student, and a great person," said Head Football Coach Brian Foos. "This is devastating news for our football family. My heart goes out to his family, our team, and anyone who had the pleasure of knowing Mike. I know he positively impacted so many during his short time on campus, and losing him is going to be difficult." 

"Our thoughts and prayers are with the Hooffstetter family during this tragic time," said Director of Athletics Dr. Darrell Bailey Sr. "The loss of a loved one is never easy, but we want the family to know that we are here during this challenging time." 

After just one year as a student-athlete at Capital, Mike made a positive impact on all those he encountered. In the classroom, Mike was a Dean's List student majoring in criminology and psychology.

On the field, Mike put together a solid freshman season as a defensive end. He finished the year with 13 tackles, including 2.5 sacks in seven games. In his first collegiate game against Defiance on September 2, 2021, Mike helped Capital to its first win since November of 2018 as he recorded three tackles, two of which were solo sacks for a loss of seven yards. 

A native of Grove City, Ohio, Mike attended Grove City High School and played both football and basketball for the Greyhounds. While in high school, he was the recipient of the DAWGS Academic Scholarship. His career ambition was to enter the law enforcement field, and his hobbies included lifting weights and reading. 

Mike is survived by his mother Cathy, his father Mike, and a younger brother. 

Memorial service arrangements have been made. Friends may call at The NAz Church (GCCN) at 4770 Hoover Rd., Grove City, Ohio 43123 on Friday, August 5, 2022 from 4:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. Funeral services will be held at the same location on Saturday, August 6, 2022 at 11:00 a.m. More information can be found by clicking here. 

As members of the CapFam, please lean on each other for support during this difficult time. Counselors at the Center for Health and Wellness are on-call 24 hours a day at 614-236-6114. Appointments also can be made by emailing chw@capital.edu. Students are encouraged to click here to learn more regarding counseling services provided by the Center for Health and Wellness.