In Loving Memory of Sione Veikoso

BYU has learned of the death of Sione Veikoso, a member of the BYU football team, in a tragic construction accident that took place in his hometown of Kailua, Hawai'i, on Friday.  

BYU football has organized a GoFundMe fundraiser to help Sione’s family with unexpected funeral and burial costs. Donations can be made using the following link: Funeral and Memorial Costs Fundraiser for Sione Veikoso. (Update Jan.2: Now closed. Thank you for the incredible response of love and support that raised the funds to help Sione's family!)  

Sione, a 6-foot-7, 305-pound offensive lineman, played in one game this past season as a redshirt freshman after transferring from Arizona State this summer. He played in one game for the Sun Devils during a redshirt 2021 season.  

Sione, 22 years old, prepped at Kailua High School in Hawai'i, and later served a full-time mission for The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints in Manaus, Brazil, from 2018-20. 

BYU head coach Kalani Sitake offered his heartfelt condolences on Twitter Friday evening after speaking to Sione's family. 

We are extremely saddened to learn of the tragic death of one of our brothers, Sione Veikoso. His passing is heartbreaking to all of us. We offer our deepest condolences and prayers to his family as we share in their grief. Our love for you is forever, Sione! https://t.co/F2xSEynQpM

— Kalani F Sitake (@kalanifsitake) December 31, 2022

BYU director of athletics Tom Holmoe also shared love and sincere condolences to family and friends of Sione on behalf of BYU.

The BYU Football Family mourns the passing of our dear teammate and fellow Cougar, Sione Veikoso. May his family and friends feel our love and faith at this most sacred and difficult time. Peace be with you now and forever Sione. https://t.co/mcLuYjlf6M

— Tom Holmoe (@TomHolmoe) December 31, 2022