Key Takeaways
- Sean Egan, a 2021 Detroit Catholic Central graduate and All-State swimmer, passed away after his third battle with cancer.
- Known for his humility, work ethic, and positive spirit, Sean’s legacy is being honored through the swim team’s “Unbreakable” Team Award, which now bears his name.
- A GoFundMe created in Sean’s memory has already raised over $22,000 toward a $50,000 goal to help his family with medical expenses and other needs.
The Detroit Catholic Central community is mourning the heartbreaking loss of Sean Egan, a 2021 graduate and beloved Swimming and diving team member.
Sean passed away after a brave battle with cancer, leaving behind a legacy that touched everyone who knew him.
Big part of our team the past 3 years. Next year he's going to be even bigger. 🔥 🏊🏻♂️. Sean Egan. 💪🏻 pic.twitter.com/XwLuXCPJac
— DCC Swim & Dive Team (@DCCSwimDive) April 11, 2020
A True Teammate And Friend
Sean wasn’t just an accomplished athlete; he was the kind of person whose presence could brighten an entire room.
Known for his humility, work ethic, and big-hearted nature, Sean became a cornerstone of the Detroit Catholic Central Swimming & Diving program and a respected member of Club Wolverine in Ann Arbor and the Hartland Hurricanes Swim Club.
The school paid tribute to him with a moving statement:
“We are deeply saddened by the passing of Sean Egan ’21… Sean was not only a dedicated athlete, but a kind and spirited teammate whose presence made a lasting impact on everyone around him.”
Via Facebook
Despite his diagnosis, Sean remained unbreakable in spirit.
He continued to inspire those around him with his courage and positive energy, even in the face of unimaginable hardship.
To honor that spirit, the swim team announced that their “Unbreakable” Team Award will now bear Sean’s name:
“A tribute to the way he inspired us all by never letting his fight define him or take away his light.”
Via Facebook
Likewise, his friends have organized a GoFundMe to honor his legacy and help his family during this difficult time.
The GoFundMe states,
“Sean passed away peacefully, comfortably, and surrounded by loved ones late last night after bravely facing his third battle with cancer. He showed incredible strength, humor, and heart throughout it all, and he inspired every single person who had the chance to know him. Sean was the kind of guy who could break a quiet room into laughter in seconds. He was thoughtful, humble, and genuinely one of the most down-to-earth people I’ve ever known. He brought light wherever he went and he always showed up for the people he cared about. We all know he would have done the same for us.”
Via GoFundMe
Talking about where the money will go, the GoFundMe states,
“All funds raised will go directly to Sean’s family to help with outstanding medical expenses, campus housing he’s been unable to live in, fraternity dues, and anything else they may need during this incredibly difficult time. No donation is too small, and every bit of support means so much; whether it’s a contribution, a share, or simply keeping Sean’s memory in your heart. Thank you for showing love for someone who meant the world to so many of us.”
Via GoFundMe
Over $22,000 has already been raised toward the goal of $50,000.
A Legacy of Athletic Excellence
Sean’s contributions to swimming were nothing short of outstanding.
He was an All-State swimmer, a title earned through sheer determination and exceptional performance in the water.
Some of his career highlights include:
- 50 Y Free: 22.29 sec (Boys Catholic League Championships, 2020)
- 100 Y Free: 50.12 sec (Boys Catholic League Championships, 2020)
- 100 Y Fly: 1:01.01 (DCC vs DLS vs Cabrini, 2019)
He also competed in regional and state-level championships for multiple years.
Moreover, the swimmer was ranked 14th in Detroit Catholic Central High School’s all-time swim standings for the 2019–2020 season, consistently scoring high across Catholic High School League and regional rankings.
Tributes Pour In
The outpouring of love following Sean’s passing is a way to understand the kind of person he was.
One person said,
“Our hearts go out to the entire Egan family. Sean was the epitome of goodness, strength and knowledge. So blessed to have known him!”
Via Facebook
Similarly, one of his teachers added,
“Sean was a great kid and a fantastic student. It was an honor to have been his teacher. May his memory be a blessing to all.”
These sentiments echo the feelings of countless peers, coaches, teachers, and family members touched by Sean’s warmth, determination, and generous heart.
More Than Just A Swimmer
Sean Egan wasn’t just known for what he did in the pool but for who he was.
He was a source of strength for his team, a loving family member, a loyal friend, and a young man wise beyond his years.
His ability to inspire, encourage, and uplift others left a mark on everyone fortunate to cross his path.
Though Sean is no longer physically with us, his spirit lives on through the people he loved and the countless lives he impacted.
Sean Egan’s legacy will never fade, whether it’s through the strokes of his former teammates, the award that now carries his name, or the stories shared by friends and teachers.
Rest in power, Sean. You were, and always will be, unbreakable.
