EUGENE, Ore. — Conservative activist Charlie Kirk, who was shot and killed Wednesday at a Utah college event, is being remembered not only for his political work but also for his passion for Oregon Ducks football.
A Lifelong Ducks Fan
Kirk, 31, was an avid supporter of the University of Oregon’s athletic programs, attending games at Autzen Stadium in Eugene and traveling to road matchups. Friends say his enthusiasm for the Ducks was so strong that he often scheduled his events around game times to make sure he never missed a kickoff.
“I didn’t talk much about politics with @charliekirk11, we talked about college football,” wrote Clay Travis, founder of OutKick, in a post on X. “He was a monster Oregon Ducks fan, loved them, built his events around their game times. I hope you let the team know @CoachDanLanning and I hope you guys do something to honor him.”
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Memorable Games
Kirk’s fandom took him to some of the Ducks’ biggest moments over the past decade.
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He attended the 2015 College Football Playoff semifinal at the Rose Bowl, where Oregon defeated Florida State.
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He was also at the 2015 CFP National Championship game in Dallas, where the Ducks fell to Ohio State.
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That same year, Kirk traveled to watch Oregon face Michigan State during the regular season.
More recently, Kirk was in Eugene last year when the Ducks hosted Ohio State. The day before that high-profile matchup, he appeared at an event at Oregon State University.
Beyond Football
Although football was his first love, Kirk also followed Oregon men’s basketball, frequently posting on social media about the team’s progress. His commentary on X often included real-time reactions to games, showing a lighter side of a figure most widely known for his political activism.
While he did not attend the University of Oregon, his loyalty to the Ducks was unwavering. Friends said it became one of the few areas of his life where politics took a back seat.
A Different Side Remembered
Kirk, the founder of Turning Point USA, built his reputation by engaging young conservatives on college campuses. But for those close to him, his devotion to Oregon athletics provided a window into his personal passions.
Travis emphasized that side in his tribute: “Charlie loved the Ducks. It wasn’t for show. He was all in.”
Calls for Recognition
With news of Kirk’s death spreading across the country, Travis suggested that the Oregon football program consider honoring Kirk’s memory. He tagged head coach Dan Lanning in his social media post, urging the team to recognize a fan whose dedication stretched across years and thousands of miles.
Whether or not the Ducks plan a tribute remains unclear. But for those who knew Kirk, his connection to the team was part of what made him relatable and approachable outside the often polarizing world of politics.
Remembering Kirk
As tributes continue to pour in following his killing, supporters and friends are highlighting facets of his life that went beyond political rallies. For many, his love of Oregon sports stands out as a defining passion.
“He was just as excited to talk about a Ducks win as he was about anything else,” one acquaintance said. “That was Charlie outside the spotlight — a guy who just loved his team.”
