The soccer world is in mourning following the death of Ronnie Bouemboue. He was 39 years old.
The soccer world is mourning the death of Ronnie Bouemboue, who passed away at the age of 39. He was a very popular figure in the NCAA, the American college soccer league, and in 2024 he had joined the coaching staff at Northwestern University.
The university, one of the most famous and prestigious in the United States, posted a statement on its official website: “The Department of Athletics and Recreation at Northwestern University expresses its deepest condolences on the passing of Ronnie Bouemboue, assistant coach of the men’s soccer team.”
“We are deeply saddened by the loss of our dear friend and colleague,” said Russell Payne, head coach of the Wildcats. “Ronnie touched the hearts of so many people with his infectious enthusiasm, genuine kindness, and unwavering positivity. He was deeply respected and loved by everyone who was fortunate enough to know him. This is an immense loss, and we will miss him dearly. Our thoughts and prayers are with Morgan and his entire family.”
Bouemboue had joined Northwestern’s coaching staff before the start of the 2024 season. During his time in Evanston, he helped lead the Cats to two consecutive winning seasons, fostering the development of four players selected for the All-Big Ten Conference team and two named to the United Soccer Coaches All-Region team.
Before joining Northwestern, Bouemboue served as head coach at Eastern Illinois (2020–21) and held assistant coaching positions at several universities, including Northern Illinois (2022–23), IU Indy (2016–19), North Carolina State (2015–16), and Bradley (2013–14).
His college playing career was also outstanding: while at North Carolina State, he was named to the All-Atlantic Coast Conference (ACC) team twice. The only player in the university’s history to be named to the ACC All-Tournament Team three times,
Bouemboue ranks among the top 15 all-time in college soccer for total goals and assists. A 2009 finalist for the prestigious Lowe’s Senior CLASS Award, during his playing years he led the Wolfpack to two historic NCAA national tournament appearances.
