Case Western Reserve University Swimmer Emil LaSida Is Survived By His Parents Lolo and Maya

He was s record-breaking swimmer, a cherished friend, and beloved son.

September 18, 2026

This article was last updated by Sanjib Sah on September 18, 2026

Emil Laside, a student athlete at Case Western Reserve University, leaves behind his parents, Lolo and Maya LaSida, and brother, Lutfi LaSida.

The Cleveland, Ohio-based university broke the tragic news of LaSida’s passing via a press release on September 17, 2026.

The 21-year-old, who was a part of the men’s swimming and diving team, passed away on September 15, 2026. However, the cause of his demise was not revealed.

LaSida attended Alexandria City High School. The young man was involved in sports from a young age. His mom and dad supported him every step of the journey.

The late swimmer, who had a bright smile, was the captain of his high school swimming and diving team.

His most notable recognition was being named a Washington Post All-Met Honorable Mention as one of the top swimmers in the Washington, D.C., Maryland, and Virginia area.

Emil joined Case Western Reserve in 2026. He quickly made his mark on the university’s men’s swimming and diving team.

At the 2026 NCAA National Championships, the 21-year-old competed in one of his best events, the 50-yard freestyle.

Not only that, he won the race by just five one-hundredths of a second. More importantly, LaSida set a new school record with a time of 19.98 seconds.

This achievement made him the first swimmer in CWRU history to finish the event in under 20 seconds.

Emil LaSida’s coach, Doug Milliken, called it one of the most incredible performances he had ever seen.

The coach also recalled the day, saying, “He was just beaming. You could have seen his smile from a mile away.“

Emil LaSida Was A Beloved Son of His Parents, Lolo and Maya

The late CWRU swimmer was born to his father, Lolo LaSida, and mother, Maya. He grew up in Alexandria, Virginia, alongside his brother, Lutfi LaSida.

For the world, Emil might be a talented swimmer, but for his family, he was a beloved son and brother. He hails from a big family.

According to the , the LaSida family members are spread across Seattle, Alexandria, Indonesia, Belgium, and beyond. And all of them are mourning the tragic loss.

His parents, who are heartbroken from the loss of their young son, shared that the family is holding a private service. As they mourn, the LaSida family has not shared the obituary or other information at this time.

Beyond swimming, the 21-year-old was a computer engineering student who built strong friendships with his teammates.

His friends remembered late nights filled with pool games, road trips, and simple conversations, while paying tribute to Emil.

One of the mourners, Stephanie Meyer, , “Devastating news. Such an incredible swimmer, wonderful role model, and beautiful soul. Sending much love and strength to Maya, Lolo, and Lufti.“

“He made every moment lighter and better just by being there.”

Teammate William Froass

Froass added, “His kindness and respect for everyone set an example I truly admired and continue to look up to.”

Adam Khatib, another friend and teammate, met Emil when they first moved in. They quickly grew close, spending late nights playing pool, talking, and sharing Emil’s quiet wit and helpful nature.

Others recalled how Emil always seemed to have whatever you needed—whether it was a tool, advice, or encouragement—and was the steady, dependable presence everyone trusted.

Moreover, CWRU head coach Milliken called him “one of those athletes every coach would want—hardworking, respectful, and full of talent.“

Relays were his favorite, where teammates could always count on him to give everything he had. His dedication and positivity led to his election to the team’s Leadership Council.

Furthermore, Emil valued time with friends, whether through movie nights, hiking trips, or board games.

Teammates and roommates recalled him as a role model, a big brother, and above all, the best friend they could have asked for.

In Case You Don’t Know

• Emil LaSida earned Academic All-District Honors for balancing strong performances in the pool and in the classroom.
• Emil held seven CWRU swimming records, including three individual events and four relays.
• He served on the team’s Leadership Council for two years, admired for his dedication and support.

• Check other Articles on

Anish Koirala has loved sports since he was a kid. He grew up playing basketball and soccer, and that passion stayed with him over the years. Today, Anish works as a writer and editor, sharing his knowledge and love for the game through articles and stories. He uses his playing experience to make his writing clear, thoughtful, and fun to read.

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