Posted: Nov 13, 2023

2023 Wyatt Balman Invitational

ALISO VIEJO, CA - The Soka University Lions hosted The Third Annual Wyatt Balman Invitational on Saturday, Nov. 11, 2023, honoring the memory of Wyatt Balman who was a beloved student-athlete. The meet began with its inaugural tradition of an audio recording of Wyatt singing the national anthem. On the swimming side, six programs competed in 28 events. Divers from Biola University and Azusa Pacific University competed in the men's and women's 1-meter events.

Soka University of America's Athletics Department's Statement:

Thomas "Wyatt" Balman tragically passed away on October 13, 2020, back home in Manhattan, Kansas. Wyatt was a third-year student and member of the Soka University swim team. Wyatt loved swimming and attending school in Aliso Viejo, California, for the beaches, mountains, and people. Wyatt was a scholar-athlete in the classroom and an NAIA qualifier in the pool. Wyatt dreamed of attending medical school with hopes of becoming an Obstetrical/Gynecological surgeon. He also aspired to serve with Doctors without Borders. He was driven to learn about the history, politics, and socio-economic conditions of people suffering injustices.

While attending Soka University, Wyatt felt blessed with opportunities to learn about cultures and traditions different from his own. Wyatt also enjoyed the water; when he wasn't in the ocean surfing before practice, he could be found at the pool with his teammates. Wyatt was a gifted musician and enjoyed singing and performing. He relished singing the national anthem at sporting events and took great pride in making a lasting impression on those that he performed in front of. He could also be heard singing and playing guitar with his friends throughout the dorms.

Wyatt was there for everyone and never hesitated to lend a helping hand. Wyatt had humility and empathy that enabled him to open his heart to others. His immeasurable compassion allowed him to be an ear for friends from all over the world. His death was a tragic loss. It is rare for someone to have touched so many and so deeply- But Wyatt was that someone. He is loved and missed by many.

Honoring Wyatt and his impact at Soka University and our swim program has become a great tradition, and we proudly host the Wyatt Balman Invitational annually to honor Wyatt and his impact on the PCSC swim community and also our university.