SIOUX FALLS, SD / SIOUX CENTER, IA — The Dordt University community, along with family and friends in Sioux Falls, is mourning the heartbreaking loss of Liam Sorensen, a senior kinesiology major and offensive lineman for the Dordt Defenders football team, who tragically passed away on Wednesday, June 4, 2025, following a fatal accident.
Liam, a recent graduate who walked across the commencement stage this past May, was preparing to begin chiropractic school in the Minneapolis-St. Paul area this fall. Described by classmates, professors, and coaches as kind-hearted, thoughtful, and deeply committed to those around him, Liam’s death has left a profound void in the hearts of all who knew him.
“Along with the entire campus community, my heart is heavy, and my prayers are frequent for all who mourn Liam’s passing,” shared Dr. Erik Hoekstra, president of Dordt University. “Liam was a bright light on our campus—a young man of purpose, faith, and joy.”
Dr. Craig Stiemsma, professor of kinesiology, recalled Liam’s presence in the classroom with admiration. “He was a tremendous student, very engaged and extremely thoughtful,” Stiemsma said. “I will never forget his soft smile when he liked, understood, or enjoyed the content of a class. He truly embodied what it meant to be a student-athlete.”
Liam made a lasting impact on the football field as well. Head Coach Joel Penner remembered him as a selfless and influential team member. “He was a team-first kind of player,” Penner said. “Liam played a ‘push/pull’ role—he pushed his teammates to give their all, and he pulled younger players along by mentoring them. His dedication, both on and off the field, made a difference.”
Originally from Sioux Falls, South Dakota, Liam brought humility, leadership, and warmth into every space he entered. Known for his quiet strength and supportive nature, he was the kind of person others naturally looked up to—someone who led not through words alone, but by example. His passing has left teammates, classmates, professors, and the wider community in deep sorrow.
Friends and loved ones have flooded social media with memories and tributes, recalling Liam’s unwavering kindness, his genuine spirit, and his passion for helping others—a passion he hoped to carry forward into a career in chiropractic care.
Dordt University has offered counseling and grief support to students and staff as they come to terms with the tragic loss. Plans for a memorial service will be shared by the Sorensen family in the coming days.
As those who knew Liam reflect on his life, one thing is clear: he lived with purpose, compassion, and integrity. Though his time was far too short, Liam Sorensen’s impact will be long-lasting—etched into the lives of those he inspired, uplifted, and loved.