Tragic Death of Volleyball Star in San Diego

A woman discovered dead in the water near a well-known San Diego beach has been identified as a talented volleyball player and enthusiastic surfer.

Summer Nash, 34, was found floating close to the Ocean Beach Pier on June 18. Lifeguards retrieved her body, and she was declared dead at the scene by the San Diego County Coroner’s Office.

Details surrounding the cause of her death remain under investigation.

A woman, who claimed to be Nash’s mother, shared that her daughter loved surfing at popular spots throughout San Diego.

“She was beautiful, very empathetic, and an accomplished athlete,” her mother said in a local publication. Over the last several years, Nash spent a lot of her time surfing from Tourmaline Beach to Mission Beach. The loss feels enormous,” she added.

Nash excelled in volleyball at both San Diego State University and Florida International University before transitioning into coaching for prominent programs at Florida State University and Stanford University.

Her last coaching season at Stanford was during 2022-2023.

Deitre Collins, Nash’s head coach during her time at SDSU, expressed her sorrow, reflecting on Nash’s significant contributions as a player who led the Aztecs in kills during many games.

“My heart is breaking to hear about the passing of my former player, Summer Nash,” she posted. “She was not only an incredible talent but also a person of genuine warmth and kindness, elevating those around her.” Nash was remembered as a truly special individual.

Matt Olson, the executive director of San Diego’s WAVE Beach Volleyball Club, recalled working with Nash for several years, describing her as a “great coach” and “one of the kindest people.” He emphasized her impressive physicality, saying that her presence on the court often intimidated opponents.

Olson reminisced about a time he took Nash surfing, noting she had a challenging outing. Yet, he wasn’t surprised by her dedication to the sport.

“Her presence was impactful, and I genuinely believe the beach volleyball community is better because she was a part of it. This is a significant loss,” he remarked.

Nash’s death coincided with warnings from Southern California officials about high waves and dangerous surfing conditions that emerged earlier this month.