College Soccer
Rutgers-Camden, local soccer community mourns death of Julian Naumenko

A local goalkeeper who had only just begun his college career at Rutgers-Camden has had his life cut short by an automobile accident.
Julian Naumenko, 19, of Hatboro, Pa., was a standout at Archbishop Wood High School and played for the Philadelphia Ukrainian Nationals. One of his more memorable performances of his career came as a sophomore in the PIAA state final in 2021. Though Wood lost the game 1-0 to Hampton, Naumenko kept his team in it with a pair of spectacular saves.
Though he did not feature for the Scarlet Raptors as a rookie, he was part of a team that posted a 9-7-5 record and a 4-2-3 record in the always tough NJAC.
“With a heavy heart and an overwhelming amount of sadness and grief, we announce the tragic passing of our teammate and brother Julian Naumenko,” said Rutgers-Camden Head Coach Tim Oswald in a news release. “Beloved by all, Julian’s character, charisma, commitment, and charm was an immediate staple within our program. In just a short amount of time with us on campus, Julian made lifelong impactful impressions with each of us and his legacy will always be found within us. We will miss his competitive spirit and infectious smile daily while always keeping his memory alive deep within the fabric of our program! Please keep his family and loved ones in your prayers.”
Julian was born in Palos Heights, Illinois but relocated with his family to Hatboro when he was in elementary school. He played soccer with the Ukies organization for a decade and was active in the Ukrainian Orthodox Church of the USA, where his father served as a priest.
“As Julian grew, quickly emerged his mop of thick blond hair, suave dance moves, and his sweet, albeit mischievous, nature,” his obituary reads. “Julian has always been curious about the world around him, his parents fostered this curiosity through exposure to as much travel as possible. Julian saw the world, and through his experiences developed a desire to work towards its greater good. He is forever remembered as having equal parts strength and compassion, determination and sensitivity, intelligence and humor.”
Services will be held Wednesday. For more information, visit the Fletcher Nevesich Funeral Home website.