The son of Ukrainian Orthodox Church of the USA Priest, the Very Rev. Fr. Taras Naumenko, Julian Naumenko, has died unexpectedly, the church has announced. He was 19.

Julian, a freshman at Rutgers University-Camden who is a soccer prodigy, died in recent days in a ‘sudden’ manner, a notice sent out by the church says.

“On behalf of His Eminence Metropolitan Antony and His Eminence Archbishop Daniel, the Consistory of the Ukrainian Orthodox Church of the USA extends heartfelt condolences and prayerful support to the families of the newly departed servants of God,” the notice reads. It continues: “Julian Naumenko, beloved son of Very Rev. Fr. Taras Naumenko and Pani Matka Laura Naumenko, whose sudden passing has brought profound sorrow to his family, friends, and parish community.”

The cause of death was not stated but other reports indicate he died in an accident.

Julian, originally from Hartboro PA, graduated Archbishop Wood High School in 2024. He was soccer letterman after a fantastic career as a goalkeeper on the varsity team. Naumenko was captain his final two seasons, earning All-Rookie team and 2x All-PCL player honors.

As a Ukrainian-American, Naumenko honored his family roots by playing for the Ukrainian Nationals club team for ten seasons.

“Julian has the chance to have a big career for us and continue the legacy of the phenomenal GK’s we have had over time. Athletic. Big frame. Fantastic shot stopper. Quality distribution. An absolute presence in the box,” his coach said of him after committing to Rutgers University-Camden in January 2024. He was pursuing a nursing major at the NJ University.

Naumenko was born November 21, 2005 to Laura and Taras Naumenko of Hartboro PA. Taras, as mentioned earlier, is a priest in the Ukrainian Orthodox Church of America.