George Netzel, a rising talent in the Severance High School wrestling program, passed away on December 15, 2025, at just 19 years old.
As his parents remain private during this time, the cause of his passing has not been disclosed, and reports indicate that it was sudden and unexpected.
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George Netzel Was a Multi-Sport Athlete, Competing in Wrestling, Jiu‑jitsu, Kickboxing, and Soccer!
George Netzel was a dedicated and ambitious athlete within the Severance High School wrestling program, where he competed primarily in the 110–125 lb range and stood 5’4″ tall.
A right‑hand–dominant wrestler with four years of experience, he qualified for the Colorado state tournament in just his second year.
His state‑level appearance is confirmed through official match listings, including a 3A Championship Round 1 bout against Pueblo Central’s Joseph LeGrand.
Beyond wrestling, he also participated in soccer for two years, earning a “Most Improved” recognition, and trained in boxing for a year.
Additionally, he trained in martial arts for a year, competing in jiu-jitsu.
During that time, he earned second place at the Fight To Win (F2W) opening and also spent time training in kickboxing.
In his personal statement, George expressed a fierce drive to become a state champion, saying:
I want to make it to the UFC and be a state wrestling champion. I want to wrestle at a college level. I want to be in a good college with a full ride.
His time at Severance reflected not only competitive growth but a clear sense of purpose and ambition that shaped his athletic identity.
George’s passing has left a void in the hearts of his family, friends, and the entire community.
One of his close family members described George’s passing as a shattering loss, saying:
Remembering Our Hero, George Yesterday, our world shattered. We said goodbye to our beloved nephew/cousin, George.
​George wasn’t just a nephew; he was like an older brother to my boys, and his sudden absence has left us all completely shaken and reeling from this devastation. He was an amazing young man—kind, funny, and full of life. We are eternally grateful to have had the privilege to know and love him. I love you, George.
Likewise, one of his well-wishers expressed that the wrestling room hasn’t felt the same since George’s passing, writing:
The Severance High wrestling room feels different now because George Netzel’s spot on the mat is empty, and his teammates keep catching themselves looking for him during warm-ups. He died unexpectedly, and the shock of it hit the school hard—one day he was there grinding through practice, encouraging a freshman who was struggling with a move, and then suddenly he wasn’t. Friends describe the morning they found out as surreal, waking up to messages that didn’t make sense until the reality set in that George was actually gone.
In the wake of his tragic passing, David Jacobson created a fundraising campaign “In Loving Memory of George Netzel” to support George Netzel’s family during this difficult time.
The main purpose of this campaign is to ease the family’s burden by helping cover funeral costs, memorial arrangements, and any unexpected expenses that may arise during this difficult period.
Our heartfelt condolences go out to George Netzel’s family, friends, and well-wishers.
Rest In Peace, George!
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