Western Alamance soccer player Eamon Hipps passes away, GoFundMe raises $47K

The family and friends of 17-year-old Eamon Hipps, a senior at Western Alamance High School, have received an outpouring of support following his sudden passing over the past weekend. A GoFundMe campaign created in his honor has raised over $47,000 within a single day.

Sheila Laparra of Burlington, North Carolina, launched the fundraiser to help the Hipps family with burial expenses, writing: “NOBODY should ever have to bury their child…. Our precious soccer family has lost a son, brother, and friend.” She further added, “Kristin and Tim Hipps must bury their precious son, Eamon. In saying this, no parent is prepared emotionally or financially for a burial.”

Laparra described Eamon as “a sweet, amazing young man” whose smile and uplifting personality touched everyone around him. As of this report, the GoFundMe campaign has raised $47,615 from 655 donors and is approaching its $50,000 goal.

Western Alamance High School confirmed Hipps’ death in a message to families on Sunday, December 28. The school honored him as both a gifted athlete and a compassionate individual. @western_alamance_soccer posted: “Words can’t describe this loss. Anyone who had the pleasure of knowing Eamon knew that he was a big loving goofball. He lit up any room that he walked into.” The post praised Hipps for his leadership, sportsmanship, and the positive impact he had on teammates and younger students. “Eamon, you will be so incredibly missed. Know that we love you and promise to honor you in everything we do.”

The WAHS student section also shared memories celebrating his personality and achievements. Hipps, a goalkeeper, contributed to team victories including the Jefferson Cup and the 3A NCHSAA High School Championship. He was a two-time NC State Champion, earning State Champion MVP and Conference Defensive Player of the Year honors. According to NCSA College Recruiting, Hipps began playing soccer at age four and became a goalie inspired by his mother. Over his high school career, he played 29 games, made 123 saves, and allowed only 11 goals.

Western Alamance High will hold a remembrance event for Eamon Hipps on Monday, December 29, from 3:00 pm to 5:00 pm at the basketball gym, giving the school community a chance to honor his life and legacy.