Dominick “Nick” Vetell, a cherished husband, father, and mentor, died on the early morning of May 16, 2025, in a car accident.
While the specific details about the accident are unknown, his loss has deeply impacted the UNC community.
Nick Vetell is survived by his wife, Meredith, and their 2-year-old daughter, Emersyn.
He was a devoted husband and father, always putting his family first. Whether he was cheering for Emersyn or supporting Meredith, Nick’s love for them was endless.
A GoFundMe page has been set up to help Meredith and Emersyn during this difficult time and provide financial support as they navigate life without Nick.
Connie Jo Bailey, Vetell’s sister, posted on Facebook to share the link to the GoFundMe campaign, along with a brief tribute to her brother. She wrote:
With a sad and heavy heart my sweet baby brother Nick went to with the Lord this morning. Please pray for our family but mostly is wonderful wife Meredith and daughter Emmi as they navigate through this devastating time! He was one in a million and will forever be remembered and loved! I miss you so much B!
Connie Jo Bailey
Nick Vetell was a beloved Assistant Strength and Conditioning Coach for Olympic Sports at the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill.
A native of Trinity, North Carolina, Nick’s journey in strength and conditioning began as an intern at Fort Bragg, working with the U.S. Army Special Operations.
He then interned at Appalachian State University while studying from 2010 to 2015. After getting his bachelor’s degree in 2014, he became the strength and conditioning coach for wrestling at Greensboro College.
Next, he worked at IMG Academy, helping athletes in sports like football, baseball, track, tennis, and soccer.
Around 2017, Nick joined the University of North Carolina, where he spent eight years, first as an intern and later as an Assistant Strength and Conditioning Coach for wrestling, swimming, and men’s tennis.
In 2025, he briefly returned to Fort Bragg to train Special Operations personnel before his tragic death in a car accident on May 16, 2025.
He held a bachelor’s degree in health promotion and a master’s in exercise science from Appalachian State, along with certifications as a Strength and Conditioning Specialist and USA Weightlifting Advanced Sports Performance Coach.
Thus far, details of his funeral service remain unknown. During this difficult time, we would like to offer our heartfelt condolences to Vetell’s wife, daughter, friends, colleagues, and extended family.
Rest Easy, Nick Vetell!
