UT Martin rodeo team member killed in competition

MARTIN, Tenn. — A UT Martin rodeo team member was killed this weekend while competing in a rodeo in New Jersey.

Coy Lutz; Image courtesy of UT Martin Sports

Coy Lutz, 19, died Saturday evening after being fatally injured while competing at the Cowtown Rodeo in Pilesgrove, N.J., a little over 200 miles from his hometown in Howard, Pennsylvania, according to a release from the school.

Lutz had just completed his freshman season on the UT Martin rodeo team. He was studying criminal justice.

“Coy was just an outstanding kid who had a real bright future,” UT Martin head coach John Luthi said in the release. “He was a good student and he came from a great family. Even though he was only here for one year, his impact will always be felt here at UT Martin. He was a super human being who always took care of his business. It’s hard to imagine why something like this had to happen, but we have faith that God is in control.”

Lutz set career-highs across the board in bareback riding at the 48th annual UT Martin Spring College Rodeo last month, tallying 78 points in the first round and 76 points in the short go for a 154 average, according to the release. His opening round total was best in the field while his average score was tied for the top total in the event.