SLIPPERY ROCK, Pa. – Slippery Rock University, its Athletics Department and The Rock football team mourn the death of football student-athlete Jake Baker, who passed away suddenly Thursday.
 
"Jake was a terrific student and teammate and a cherished member of our Rock football family," said head coach Shawn Lutz. "We are heartbroken by his loss and we share our deepest condolences with his family and friends."
 
Baker, a native of Thurmont, Maryland, played his first season at Slippery Rock in the fall of 2023 after transferring in from Towson. He appeared in eight games as a defensive end and helped The Rock to the 2023 PSAC West title and a trip to the NCAA Division II Quarterfinals. 
 
During his time at Slippery Rock, Baker earned PSAC Scholar-Athlete honors as a marketing major. He was also a Dean's List honoree at Clarion, where he began his college career in 2021.
 
A variety of services are available to the SRU campus community as we grieve together. Students on campus or in the community this summer needing someone to talk with should contact the Dean of Students Office at 724.738.2121. During the summer, this office is open Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. Students that are away from campus can seek help through the Center for Community Resources of Butler County. Crisis support is available 24/7 by calling 800.292.3866. You can also text the center at 62388. Faculty and staff can contact the State Employee Assistance Program 24/7 by calling 800.692.7459.
 
Friends will be received Friday, May 31 from 2-4 p.m. and 6-8 p.m. at Bash-Nied Funeral Home, 152 Abbe Place, Delmont, PA. A funeral mass will take place Saturday, June 1 at 11 a.m. at St. Vincent Basilica, 300 Fraser Purchase Road, Latrobe, PA.