‘Feels like it was just yesterday’: 9 years later, Sam Foltz’s family keeps his legacy alive

LINCOLN, Neb. (KLKN) — Nine years after Nebraska punter Sam Foltz died, his family is asking fans to keep his legacy alive.

Foltz and former Michigan State punter Mike Sadler were killed in a crash on July 23, 2016, while on their way back from a kicking camp.

“At times, you know, nine years seems like it was ages ago,” Foltz’s sister, Betsy Foltz Carey, told Channel on Wednesday. “But at other times, it feels like it was just yesterday.”

SEE ALSO: Portion of Nebraska Highway 56 to be dedicated to late Husker Sam Foltz

The Huskers honored Foltz with emotional tributes throughout the 2016 season.

On a fourth-and-4 in the opening game, fans at Memorial Stadium roared as the Huskers lined up in punt formation, but without a punter.

“There’s going to be a hole on our team now,” placeholder Zack Darlington said in 2016. “And it’s not going to be filled because people like Foltz don’t come around often.”

SEE ALSO: Seniors pay tribute to Sam Foltz

Carey is asking people to donate $27 — in honor of her brother’s jersey number — to the Sam Foltz Foundation.

She said those donations will help sustain causes like an annual memorial kicking camp for Nebraska kids.

“They can hone their skills, get a little bit better, but also learn about themselves and who they are as leaders and who they want to be in the community,” Carey said.

SEE ALSO: Husker fans remember Foltz at first game of the season

Although her brother’s life was cut short, she said he “lived every day to the fullest” and strove to uphold a motto.

“I think the best way that people can keep living out his legacy and kind of keep living out his message is every day just living out that motto: ‘Dream big, work hard, stay humble,'” Carey said. “Just keep trying to be the best people that you can be, and when good needs to be done in the world, being that person that steps in and makes it happen.”