California College Wrestler Dies in Yosemite Fall

A college wrestler from California died in a fall at Yosemite National Park on Sunday, according to his coach.

Ryan George, a 19-year-old sophomore and All-American wrestler at Santa Rosa Junior College, was hiking with friends near Illilouette Falls when he slipped and fell, The Press Democrat reported. The Mariposa County Sheriff's Department and park officials have been contacted for further information.

His coach, Fred Duerr, described George as a "genuine, positive" individual who had a knack for making others feel welcome. "He had this way of lighting up a room, making you feel welcome, and bringing out the best in everyone around him," Duerr said in a statement. "[He was always] smiling, always encouraging, always full of life. He was an amazing leader and wrestler, but more than that, he was an amazing human."

George was an accomplished athlete, earning All-American honors as a freshman and securing third place in the California Community College Athletic Association tournament. His sister, Jaida George, told The Press Democrat that her brother found great joy in the sport, saying, "It was good watching him find what he loved." She added, "He really just loved to play. Literally, it just matches him. He was just so loving."

George's high school coach, Ken Coburn, noted that George's "gregarious nature" sometimes meant his opponents became his friends. "He wasn't a natural competitor, he had to learn to compete," Coburn said. "Even his competitors became friends with Ryan. He was a very respectful young man, very humble."

A GoFundMe has been established to support George's sister, Jaida, who recently lost their mother, according to the fundraising page.