COLONIE— John P. Verbo, a 16-year-old junior at Colonie High School, died Tuesday, Feb. 25 at Tufts Medical Center in Boston after suffering cardiac arrest while playing in a volleyball tournament. He was competing at the Boston Volleyball Festival with the Capital Sliders, a Capital Region club based in Clifton Park.
Verbo, born in Albany, was remembered as a dedicated athlete with a passion for sports and music. His obituary noted that he approached every game with determination and was known for his vibrant personality both on and off the court. He is survived by his parents, Michael and Yvonne Verbo, and his brothers, Allen and Mark, along with numerous extended family members and friends who recall his joyful spirit.
Colonie Central High School, where Verbo was a junior, expressed its grief over the news. In a statement, principal Bill Behrle said the school community is “deeply saddened” by his passing.
“John was a bright presence on the court and in our school community. His leadership and dedication to his teammates made a lasting impact on everyone who had the privilege of knowing him,” Behrle said. He added that the school is committed to supporting the Verbo family during this difficult time.
The Mass of Christian Burial is scheduled for 9 a.m. Saturday at Christ Our Light Catholic Church in Loudonville, with visitation for family and friends on Friday at Cannon Funeral Home in Colonie. Interment will follow at Our Lady of Angels Cemetery. Memorial contributions may be made to the Colonie High School Booster Club (Volleyball) in John’s honor.
Authorities confirmed that Boston police responded to a cardiac arrest call at the Boston Convention and Exhibition Center on Feb. 21. Verbo was transported to Tufts Medical Center, where he later died. Representatives for the tournament and the Capital Sliders have declined to provide further comment, citing respect for the family’s privacy.
A GoFundMe page, organized by a local volleyball parent, has raised more than $76,000 to support the Verbo family, reflecting the outpouring of support from the community and the volleyball circuit.
John Verbo’s death has left the Capital Region volleyball community mourning a young athlete known for his passion and determination, and his loss is being felt by many who admired his spirit both in sport and in life.
