SAINT LEO, Fla. - The Saint Leo University community mourns the loss of Daniel Waln, assistant coach for men's basketball. Waln passed away on Wednesday, July 16, while visiting with family in North Wilkesboro, N.C.

Saint Leo Vice President of Athletics, Wellness, and Recreation, Marcal Lazenby, stated, "We are heartbroken by the sudden and tragic loss of Coach Daniel Waln. Daniel was more than a coach, he was a mentor, a leader, and a bright spirit who made a profound impact on our student-athletes and the entire Saint Leo family. His passion for the game and commitment to our university were evident in everything he did. We will miss him deeply, and our thoughts and prayers are with his family, friends, and all who have the privilege of knowing him."

He is survived by his mother, Kim Marie Waln; his aunts Terry Hodges (Mike) and Janet Waln; his uncle, David Waln; his cousins Kristen Hodges, Lonnie Hodges, Bobby Hodges (Amanda), Eldalynn McNeill (Boo), Alaina McNeill (Bam Bam), Devyn, Eden, Zoe, Harley, Malachi, and Silas Hodges, Kevin McAbee and Candace McAbee-Johnson, Donte, Troy, Pierce, and Roman Waln. Also surviving is his girlfriend, Brittany Brooks.
 
Waln was a gifted athlete and rising collegiate basketball coach. Before his position at Saint Leo, Waln held coaching positions at Lees McRae College (NC) and Catawba College (NC), where his team won two conference championships and one NCAA DII tournament championship.
 
In high school, Waln was named athlete of the year and conference football player of the year, winning numerous championships and accolades in basketball, football, and baseball.

Head Saint Leo men's basketball coach, Spencer Henke, stated, "It's a tragic loss for our program, our university, and the entire college basketball community. Coach Waln made a profound impact on every life he touched, and I am beyond thankful for his commitment to helping me grow our program to the level I believe Saint Leo men's basketball can and should be at. His passion, enthusiasm, and desire to make the most of every moment will live with me and our players for the rest of our lives. My condolences to the Waln family and all those impacted by this tragic loss. Please keep his loved ones and our program in your thoughts and prayers."

Memorials may be made to the Daniel Waln Scholarship Fund at Ashe County High School c/o Brian Hampton. Please keep the Waln family in your thoughts and prayers during this difficult time.

The family has shared a moving tribute to Daniel in their online obituary.