Linfield Basketball Player Killed in Car Wreck

Peterson lettered eight times in basketball, volleyball and track at Hockinson High School. She was also a four-year basketball team captain and two-time first team all-Trico League center at Hockinson. She was a forward and center on the Wildcat team.

Photo: Linfield Athletics

McMINNVILLE - Counselors and staff at Linfield College are meeting with students and faculty after learning that Linfield College student Chelsea Peterson (Fr., Hockinson, Wash.) died early Sunday morning in a single car accident near Newberg.

Peterson was 18.

"She was a young lady with great spirit and determination," said Robyn Stewart, women's basketball coach at Linfield. "She always had a smile on her face and was encouraging and positive to her teammates. She had a bright future as a basketball player."

The women's basketball team will honor Peterson at their home opener this Saturday, Nov. 18, at 7:00 PM against Oregon Institute of Technology and will dedicate the 2006-07 season to her.

Counselors from the counseling center, chaplain's office and student services have been meeting with students, faculty and staff since college officials received word of the accident, according to Dave Hansen, vice president for student services and dean of students.

"In a short time, she made some significant connections and contributions at Linfield College," he said. "Our thoughts and prayers are with Chelsea's family, teammates, coaches, hall mates and friends.

"Our primary concern is to make sure that the campus community has the support it needs to deal with this tragedy," Hansen said. "Staff and counselors met with coaches and members of the basketball team, the sorority and her residence hall to provide any assistance that is needed."

In addition, counselors will be available to anyone in the college community in the coming days and weeks, he added. College officials are providing the family with any assistance they request.

Hansen said that a memorial service will probably be held on campus, but that will depend upon the wishes of Peterson's family.

What a sad time for the family and friends of Chelsea. She had already made a difference in her short time on earth, imagine what she is doing in heaven! Be strong and give it to god!

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