Former MLS player Brad Knighton posted tributes to his late daughter on social media Friday, just days after her tragic death in a boating accident.
Olivia Knighton, 11, died in an accident in South Carolina on July 19.
Brad Knighton, a longtime goalie with the New England Revolution who retired after the 2022 season, posted tributes on Twitter and Instagram commemorating her life.
“Rest in Peace Olivia Grace Knighton 11/3/11-7/19/23,” Knighton posted on Twitter. “We will love you always and forever our sweet angel!”
In an earlier Instagram post, Knighton noted that his daughter was “always finding ways to be out and interacting with her friends and neighbors. Whether it was riding bikes, watering plants, or organizing a refrigerator, Olivia just loved her people and they loved her.”
“Olivia loved soccer and the Revolution with all her heart,” Knighton wrote. “Our family always felt your support behind us during my career. We will need you and your prayers with us now more than ever.”
According to multiple reports, Olivia Knighton was on a boat in the Intracoastal Waterway in South Carolina when the 23-foot boat hit a huge wake from another vessel, sending several people overboard. Knighton was struck by a propeller and later died from her injuries.
The Revolution paid tribute to Olivia Knighton’s memory during matches last weekend and again Wednesday with special jerseys, a moment of silence and messages on the scoreboard.
About Arthur Weinstein
Arthur spends his free time traveling around the U.S. to sporting events, state and national parks, and in search of great restaurants off the beaten path.