Washington Huskies star Zion Tupuola-Fetui takes to the field in TEARS one month after his father’s passing as he shares emotional hug with his mom before rivalry game against Washington State Cougars
- The competition was held on what would have been his parents’ 26th birthday
- Beforehand, Tupuola-Fetui made sure to pick up his mother in the crowd
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Washington Huskies linebacker Zion Tupuola-Fetui was overcome with emotion before their in-state rivalry game against the Washington State Cougars.
As he ran outside before the game, Tupuola-Fetui — whose father passed away last month — was seen shedding tears and hugging his mother on the sidelines of Husky Stadium.
He also appeared to be holding framed photos that were likely images of the family.
The broadcast crew further revealed that not only had it been a month since his father passed away, but Saturday would also have marked the 26th anniversary of Tupuola-Fetui’s parents.
Heading into the game, the senior had recorded 23 tackles and 3.5 sacks for the No. 4 ranked Huskies.
Washington Huskies linebacker Zion Tupuola-Fetui was overcome with emotion before their in-state rivalry game against the Washington State Cougars
Tupuola-Fetui, whose father died last month, appeared to hold framed photos of his family as he took to the field
He also shared an emotional hug with his mother on what would have been her 26th birthday with his late father
Tupuola-Fetui has been a member of the Huskies since 2018 and has taken full advantage of the NCAA’s recent changes to the rules that preserve player eligibility.
During his time with the Huskies, Tupuola-Fetui has amassed a roster of honors that includes being named All-Pac-12 First, Second and Third Team, All America Second and Third Team, and more.
Not only would a win against their rivals make the emotional day a special one for Tupuola-Fetui, but it would also put Washington one step closer to securing an undefeated regular season and a berth in the College Football Playoff.
Next week the Huskies will play what is expected to be a very competitive game against the No. 6 Oregon Ducks and Heisman Trophy candidate Bo Nix.
Oregon kept their momentum going after securing a 31-7 victory over No. 15 Oregon State.