June 28, 2007
NORMAL, Ill. -
Former Illinois State pole vaulter Jordan Styx was killed in a tragic motorcycle accident on Sunday, June 23 in Lake Villa, Ill. Styx, a 2006 ISU graduate, participated on the Redbird track and field team for two years.
The news came as a shock to the Redbird athletic family, especially to head track and field coach Elvis Forde.
"Jordan was one of the nicest kids in our program," said Forde. "He knew what he wanted to achieve and always worked very hard to improve.
"He was never afraid to help others," added Forde. "He was very bright and assisted and tutored some of the other kids on the team. He was always willing to give back to the team; he will be missed."
Styx walked onto the Redbird track and field team mid-season in 2005 after receiving his associates degree at the College of Lake County. He had a break out season, finishing fifth in the outdoor pole vault at the Central Collegiate Championships in Champaign, Ill., with personal and season best jump of 14-1.25.
The Ingleside, Ill. native ended his senior vaulting career finishing ninth on the indoor pole vault at the Badger Invite, with a jump of 13-02.2. Styx also competed outdoors at the Eastern Illinois Invitational and finished 10th in the pole vault with a jump of 13-07.25.
"To see a young life cut short is sad," said Forde. "You always miss the good ones and he will be one of those fine young men that will be missed from our family."
The 24-year-old Styx is survived by his parents, John and Therese, and five siblings.
Memorial services are scheduled from 4- 8 p.m. Thursday at Justen's Funeral Home, 222 N Rosedale Court, Round Lake, Ill. Visitation and funeral will begin at 9 a.m. Friday at The Chapel, 23270 W. Route 60, Grayslake, Ill.
