“Ryan was a real likable kid, personality through the roof. Any room he stepped in was better,” Wade said. “A great, respectful young man. Very popular kid around campus, hardworking, and very talented. I was talking about him being the guy to come with me to SWAC media day next year. Great kid, he’ll be missed for sure.”
Quinney, 20, died in a car accident in Yazoo City, Mississippi, Friday, the day before MVSU was scheduled to take on Jackson State in a SWAC East football game. The Delta Devils surprised the Tigers with an early 14-9 lead, but the SWAC East leaders eventually took control for a 51-14 win.
Wade said his players have not had any football-related activities since Quinney’s passing, instead focusing on grieving a beloved member of their program.
“We brought our pastor in, and we’ve got professionals coming in to make sure the kids are in a good headspace,” he said. “Players loved being around him. He was gonna dance and crack jokes. I just have to give respect to his mom for how she’s handled this. I’ve talked to her every day. She raised a great young man.”
The coach admits that it’s been a tough 72 hours, but as the program’s leader, he knows what the task at hand is.
“It’s tough as a head coach because I’m hurt, but I can’t walk around with my chest down because if I look defeated, then they’re going to do the same thing. I have to be strong for those kids,” Wade explained.
