Monday, March 27, 2023
Asbury University Mourns the Loss of Alumnus Justin Spoon
WILMORE, Ky. --- Justin Spoon, the most accomplished male cross country student-athlete in Asbury University history, passed away March 23, 2023. The two-time team captain and member of the graduating class of 2021 was diagnosed with Rhabdomyosarcoma, a highly aggressive form of cancer, midway through his senior year.
The Columbus, Ind., native courageously fought this disease for over two years with chemotherapy, radiation and numerous surgeries. Throughout this challenge, Spoon was a consistent witness for Christ. He inspired and encouraged other cancer patients, his team of medical professionals, his friends and family, and legions of others who followed his victories and setbacks online and marveled at the strength of his character and faith.
"Justin had the most successful competitive career of any male runner in the 53 years of the Asbury Cross Country program," Head Coach Dr. Randy Crist said. "He exemplified everything we strive for in Asbury Athletics, academic excellence, spiritual vitality, and athletic success. Justin's work ethic in practice was incredible. His smile and laugh were infectious, and his Christian character was inspiring. He was loved by his teammates and will be greatly missed by all of us."
To honor Spoon's impact on the cross country program, the University will rename the annual Asbury Chick-fil-A Invitational to include his name. This will ensure the opportunity to share the Justin Spoon story of character, commitment, leadership, and ministry for many years to come.
"Justin possessed an indomitable spirit and the ability to inspire the positive actions of others," Professor of Psychology and Department Chair Dr. Paul Nesselroade said. "As a student, he was very attentive, highly curious and meaningfully engaged in class. He consistently submitted work that was of very high quality. He possessed strong personal discipline and a firm desire to strive for excellence in all that he did."
"He wanted his life to make a difference in the lives of others. What stronger statement of personal character can be made?" Nesselroade added.
"Justin embodied Godly servant leadership," the Director of AU's Christian Life Project Jeannie Banter said. "Above all, he was a consistent, Christ-like presence on our campus. Justin committed his four years to live intentionally in this community. Disciple-making was not something he did, it is who he was!"
When Spoon was named the recipient of the 2021 Eagle Award, it was described in this way:
"The 2021 Eagle Award recipient, Justin Spoon, has uniquely embodied the character, faith, dedication and resolve of the most exemplary Asbury Eagle. The most accomplished athlete in the history of the men's AU cross country program, Spoon began his senior season by winning three races and being named River States Conference (RSC) Runner of the Week on three occasions. Just days before the RSC Championship meet, his season abruptly ended due to serious medical issues. Spoon has demonstrated personal courage and resiliency while enduring difficult medical treatments in the following months. It was no surprise to his teammates or his Asbury family that this exceptional student-athlete and team captain was able to return to campus last month to receive his degree in psychology at AU's commencement ceremony."
Athletic Accomplishments:
- Four-time River States All-Conference in Cross Country and Track
- Two-time NAIA National Championship qualifier
- NAIA Scholar Athlete
- River States Conference Scholar Athlete
- Two-time Cross Country Team Captain
- Asbury school record holder
- Individual Champion of 2020 Greater Louisville Invitational, annually the largest regular season competition attended by any AU Athletic team.
- For more information: https://asburyeagles.com/sports/mens-cross-country/roster/justin-spoon/3793
Extra-Curricular:
- Asbury Spiritual Life Coordinator (SLC)
- Asbury Spiritual Life Assistant (SLA) (2 years)
- Member of the Asbury Men's Glee Club
