Arizona Diamondbacks pitcher Ryan Thompson commemorated the first anniversary of Charlie Kirk’s death. Kirk, a prominent conservative activist and founder of Turning Point USA, was a close supporter of President Donald Trump. He was shot in the neck while speaking at Utah Valley University on Sept. 10, 2025.
Kirk adopted a proactive conservative position on various public debates, opposing abortion, DEI initiatives, LGBTQ rights, and gun control. Over time, he aligned himself with the Christian right and emerged as a prominent supporter of Christian nationalism.
Sharing his thoughts about Kirk on social media, Thompson wrote an emotional message, remembering and praising Kirk.
“Thinking about Charlie Kirk today and wondering…man, it’s gotta be a workout for him every day in Heaven with all those crowns on his head,” Thompson wrote on X.
Over 100,000 people attended Kirk’s memorial service at State Farm Stadium in Glendale, AZ, on Sept. 21, 2025. His assassination drew international attention and prompted multiple parties to condemn political violence globally.
Charlie Kirk Statue Unveiled at Utah Valley University
On the anniversary of Charlie Kirk’s death, Utah Valley University unveiled a seated statue of the activist on a folding chair on stage during the memorial service on Thursday. The statue was made for his student organization, Turning Point USA, and was designed by artist Stan Watts.
Kirk was also honored at a Republican convention, where several leaders, including his widow, Erika Kirk, who became TPUSA’s CEO after his passing, spoke about his contributions to society. TPUSA also honored its founder by unveiling an eight-foot-tall bronze statue at their headquarters in Phoenix, AZ.
Also read:
College Sports Network has you covered with the latest news, analysis, insights, and trending stories in tennis, college football, men’s college basketball, women’s college basketball, and college baseball!