Passages: Emil LaSida, Case Western Reserve Record-Holder, 21
Emil LaSida, a junior swimmer at Case Western Reserve, died on Sept. 15 at the age of 21.
LaSida last year set the school record in the men’s 50 freestyle, the first to break 20 seconds in program history with a time of 19.98 seconds at NCAA Division III Championships in 2025.
A school announcement of his passing did not include a cause of death.
LaSida was a native of Alexandria, Va., captaining his team at Alexandria City High and earning All-Met honorable mention honors from the Washington Post. He majored in computer engineering at CWRU.
LaSida is the holder of seven school records, including the 50 free, 100 free and 100 back and four relays. At NCAAs in 2025, he finished 15th in the 50 free (his 19.98 time was in a swim-off to reach the B final), 25th in the 100 back and 40th in the 100 free. LaSida was also a member of the team’s leadership council the last two years.
“Emil was one of those athletes that every coach would want: He always worked hard, he had a great attitude and was a very respectful person,” CWRU head coach Doug Milliken said in a university obituary. “And then you couple that with the talent that he had—it was amazing.”
“Emil’s accomplishments speak for themselves, and they reflect his character, investment, and dedication to swimming and discipline,” teammate Caeden Couch said. “Every single person on the team looks up to Emil as a role model, big brother and, most of all, a friend.”
“[Emil] is the kind of person who offers his seat to someone else, hosts and bakes for his friends, lifts others up at swim meets, and makes sure every person in the room feels comfortable,” swimmer Claire Kozma said. “He did everything with grace and out of love, always considering the needs of others.”
LaSida is survived by parents Lolo and Maya, brother Lufti and family members across the world. The family will host a private memorial service.
