With profound sadness, the Saint Mary’s University community and the broader Nova Scotia soccer family mourn the untimely passing of Steve Belinga, a cherished young man whose passion, spirit, and commitment to the game of soccer left a lasting impression on all who knew him.
Steve passed away suddenly, leaving behind a trail of grief but also memories of kindness, dedication, and camaraderie. Steve was a proud and talented member of the Saint Mary’s University Men’s Soccer team during the 2023–2024 season.
As a Husky, he brought energy, integrity, and skill to the field—earning the respect and admiration of teammates, coaches, and fans alike. He wore the maroon and white with pride, giving his all to the team, not only in competition but in practice, in the locker room, and in the community.
From the moment he joined the program, it was evident that Steve possessed something special. His teammates often spoke of his quiet confidence, his willingness to support others, and his unwavering love for the game.
While his time with the team may have been short, the impact he made was undeniable. Off the pitch, Steve was a valued member of the Nova Scotia soccer community.
Whether volunteering, mentoring younger players, or simply showing up to support others, Steve was present in ways that mattered. His humility, warmth, and enthusiasm left a mark that will not be forgotten. He believed in the power of sport to unite, to uplift, and to inspire—and he lived that belief every day.
The Saint Mary’s Athletics Department shared their grief in a heartfelt message:
“We are deeply saddened to learn of the passing of one of our own, Steve Belinga. Steve was a proud member of the Saint Mary’s Men’s Soccer program during the 2023–2024 season. He was also an active member of our Nova Scotia Soccer community. He will be deeply missed. Our thoughts are with Steve’s family, friends, and loved ones during this difficult time. Once a Husky, always a Husky.”
Those words echo the sentiments of many who knew Steve. His loss is not only that of a promising athlete but of a young man whose presence brightened the lives of those around him.
Friends describe him as thoughtful and driven, someone who brought people together and made those around him better—both on and off the field. Steve was the kind of teammate who celebrated others’ successes as if they were his own.
He trained hard, played fair, and showed up with a heart full of passion and a commitment to excellence. His loss is felt not only in the silence of the locker room but in the hearts of everyone touched by his kindness and strength.
As the community gathers to remember Steve, the legacy he leaves behind will live on in the memories of his teammates, the matches he played, and the friendships he forged.
His name will be remembered in the halls of Saint Mary’s and throughout Nova Scotia’s soccer fields—not just for the goals he scored or the games he played, but for the way he lived: with grace, humility, and heart.
To Steve’s family, we extend our deepest condolences. Your loss is shared by an entire community that loved and admired him. May you find comfort in knowing how deeply he was respected, how widely he was loved, and how profoundly he will be missed.
Rest in peace, Steve Belinga.
Once a Husky, always a Husky.
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