Freddy Espinal Scholarship To Honor Peabody Wrestler's Memory

PEABODY, MA — The family of the Peabody Veterans Memorial High School student who died during a wrestling practice in September is launching a scholarship for PVMHS seniors pursuing a career in criminal justice in memory of Freddy Espinal.

The family said Espinal, who wrestled for the Peabody-Saugus program and who trained out of Red Roots Wrestling in North Reading, intended to study criminal justice after volunteering with the Essex County Summer Day Camp.

"We honor the memory of a bright, beautiful soul who left this world far too soon," the family wrote in a social media post. "In his short time with us, he brought so much love, joy and light into the lives of everyone around him. His laughter was infectious, his smile lit up the darkest days, and his spirit will live forever in our hearts.

"The world is a little dimmer without him. But the love and legacy he left behind will always shine bright."

The family is seeking donations for the scholarship that will be awarded to the senior student who demonstrates the qualities, values and unrealized potential of Freddy Espinal.

A Venmo QR code to make a donation can be found here.