The Kearny, New Jersey, community is grieving the heartbreaking loss of Nathan Aguilar, a respected volleyball player, dedicated student, and cherished friend who passed away following a tragic traffic collision.
His sudden death has left family members, teammates, classmates, coaches, and everyone who knew him mourning the loss of a young man remembered for his kindness, commitment, and love for the game.
Nathan Aguilar was a senior member of the New Jersey City University men’s volleyball team, where he played the middle blocker position.
Standing at 6 feet 3 inches, he became a dependable presence on the court through consistent improvement, determination, and a team-first attitude. His dedication to both athletics and academics earned him admiration throughout the university community.
A Standout Career at New Jersey City University
A graduate of Kearny High School’s Class of 2021, Nathan continued his volleyball journey at New Jersey City University, majoring in Marketing while representing the Gothic Knights.
During his collegiate career, he steadily developed into an important contributor to the program.
As a freshman in 2022, Nathan appeared in 29 of the team’s 32 matches and made 24 starts. He finished the season with 88 kills and ranked among the team’s leaders in total blocks.
His performances included a career high 10 kills against St. Joseph’s Brooklyn and several matches in which he recorded five total blocks. His efforts earned him New Jersey Athletic Conference Rookie of the Week honors in April 2022.
Nathan continued to build on that success during the 2023 season, appearing in 20 matches and making eight starts. He delivered several efficient offensive performances, including nine kills with just one error in a victory over Purchase College and eight error-free kills in a sweep of Yeshiva University.
His senior season in 2024 showcased some of the most consistent volleyball of his career. Nathan appeared in 24 matches and started 16 contests while recording 69 kills with an impressive .414 hitting percentage.
He also contributed 11 service aces, 21 digs, and 18 total blocks. Among his strongest performances were seven kills without an error against Manhattanville and six kills on just seven swings against St. Joseph’s Brooklyn.
Nathan’s excellence extended beyond competition. He was recognized on the Skyline Academic Honor Roll in 2024 and earned New Jersey Athletic Conference All Academic Honorable Mention recognition for the 2024 and 2025 academic years, reflecting his commitment to success in the classroom as well as on the court.
Remembering Nathan Beyond Volleyball
While Nathan’s accomplishments as an athlete were significant, those who knew him best remember him for his character. He was respected for his positive attitude, supportive nature, and willingness to encourage teammates through every challenge.
Whether during practices, matches, or everyday campus life, he built lasting friendships through his humility and genuine care for others.
Nathan was the beloved son of Pamela and Benjie Aguilar and a loving brother to Rayshell and Brielle. His family remained a constant source of encouragement throughout his academic and athletic journey, celebrating his achievements and supporting his goals every step of the way.
As the Kearny community and New Jersey City University mourn his passing, many are remembering a young man whose dedication, sportsmanship, and compassion touched countless lives.
His contributions to the Gothic Knights volleyball program and the friendships he built throughout his life will continue to be remembered by those fortunate enough to know him.
The Aguilar family has received an outpouring of condolences from friends, teammates, and members of the volleyball community as they honor Nathan’s memory and celebrate a life that made a lasting impact both on and off the court.
