In Loving Memory of Dominiq Ponder
With profound sorrow and heavy hearts, we remember and honor the life of Dominiq Ponder, a gifted quarterback, devoted teammate, beloved son, and young man of tremendous promise. At just 23 years old, his life was tragically cut short in a single-car crash early Sunday morning, leaving the college football community and all who knew him in deep mourning.
According to the Colorado State Patrol, the crash occurred around 3 a.m. in Boulder County. Authorities reported that Dominiq was driving a 2023 Tesla Model 3 when he lost control on a curve. The vehicle crossed into the eastbound lane, struck a guardrail and an electrical line pole, then rolled down an embankment and caught fire. He was pronounced dead at the scene. A preliminary investigation indicates that speed is suspected as a factor, though a full investigation is ongoing.
While the circumstances of his passing are heartbreaking, today we focus on celebrating the life he lived and the legacy he leaves behind.
Dominiq was a proud quarterback for the Colorado Buffaloes, where he spent the past two seasons after transferring from Bethune-Cookman Wildcats. A third-year sophomore originally from Opa-locka, he carried his roots with pride and brought both southern warmth and relentless determination to the field.
Though his time on the field at Colorado included limited appearances — playing in two games last season with two rushes and a pass attempt — his impact went far beyond statistics. Teammates and coaches saw in him something greater than numbers: a competitor with heart, a leader in the locker room, and a young man whose passion for the game was unmistakable.
Colorado athletic director Fernando Lovo spoke on behalf of the university, saying, “The entire CU Athletics family is devastated at the tragic passing of Dominiq Ponder. He epitomized the values of passion, enthusiasm, leadership, toughness, and intelligence that were revered by his teammates and coaches alike. Our hearts go out to his family and all of his teammates during this difficult time.”
Those words capture what so many felt about Dominiq. He was the type of player who showed up early, stayed late, and pushed himself and others to be better. He understood that being a quarterback meant more than throwing a football — it meant guiding others, staying composed under pressure, and carrying responsibility with confidence.
Off the field, Dominiq was known for his energy, his smile, and his drive. He was a young man still building his future, still chasing dreams, still writing his story. To his family, he was a cherished son whose achievements brought pride and whose presence brought joy. To his teammates, he was a brother. To his friends, he was someone you could count on.
His journey from Opa-locka to collegiate football represented dedication and perseverance. Transfers, challenges, and competition are part of the college athlete experience, and Dominiq embraced it all with resilience. He worked tirelessly to earn his opportunities and never lost sight of the bigger picture — growth, both as a player and as a person.
The loss of such a young life reminds us of life’s fragility. In an instant, everything can change. The locker room will feel quieter. The practice field will carry a different weight. The number he wore will hold new meaning. Yet his spirit — the passion and leadership described by those who knew him — will endure.
As the Colorado community grieves, they also unite. Teammates lean on one another. Coaches offer guidance. Fans extend their condolences. And across state lines, in Florida and beyond, family and friends gather to remember the young man they loved.
May Dominiq Ponder be remembered not for the tragedy that took him, but for the determination that defined him. May his family find strength in the outpouring of love surrounding them. May his teammates carry his memory onto the field in every snap, every huddle, every moment of unity.
Rest in peace, Dominiq. Your passion, your leadership, and your spirit will never be forgotten.
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