More About Justin
Justin Ebner was born on August 11, 2001, in San Jose, California where he lived all his life, attending Holy Spirit School and Bellarmine College Preparatory. He was a junior at Santa Clara University, majoring in accounting, when he died from a head injury after an accidental fall while walking home from a fraternity event on November 10, 2021.
At the time of his death, he was excelling at life. He was excited about an upcoming spring break trip to Cabo in March 2022 with friends and looking forward to living in San Francisco during the summer of 2022 where he would have worked for Ernst & Young as an accounting intern. He was also looking forward to attending the Final Four with his dad, John, in New Orleans and so much more.
Justin’s spirit of adventure, love for the people around him, and zest for life were evident in his ambitious plans and aspirations. Though his time with us was cut short, his impact and the memories he created will forever live on in the hearts of those who knew and loved him.
Justin's Love of Volleyball
Justin loved volleyball. He was a gentle giant off the court but had an extraordinary passion for playing and competing alongside his teammates and summertime was filled with early morning beach volleyball pick-up games in Santa Cruz.
In December 2016, Justin was given the opportunity to attend a team practice (suggested by a friend) for Bay to Bay Volleyball Club, and it ignited his love for the sport. Over the next few years, he was a key member of Bellarmine’s varsity volleyball team winning WCAL championships and a CCS championship as well as Bay to Bay’s 17-1’s team winning gold in the club’s first national championship in 2018 in Phoenix, AZ, wearing #37.
He further expanded his love of playing to also coaching the Bay to Bay 12’s team in the summer of 2021, which further expanded to him becoming a practice player for the Santa Clara Women’s Volleyball team in the fall of 2021, where he was loved for his physicality and his spirit. While he had a dominating physical presence on the court, it was his enthusiastic spirit, big smile, and energy that made him truly special.
Justin & Sigma Pi
Justin was so proud to be admitted to the brotherhood of Sigma Pi fraternity. What made this milestone even more extraordinary was the opportunity to share this bond with his older brother, Ryan, during Ryan’s final year at Santa Clara University. Within the fraternity, Justin formed strong connections, particularly with the brothers residing in the SkyBox fraternity house during his sophomore year. The brothers in SkyBox were proud of their jerseys, and Justin proudly wore the number 34.
In a heartfelt tribute to Justin’s enduring spirit, the fraternity made a profound gesture by renaming their annual philanthropy event the “Justin Ebner MS Memorial Volleyball Tournament.” This significant renaming serves as a lasting testament to Justin’s impact and the everlasting bond he shared with his brothers. The tournament will forever carry Justin’s name, symbolizing the unwavering connection and love that he brought to the fraternity.
The Sigma Pi fraternity stands as a living testament to the power of brotherhood and the lasting impact of Justin’s presence. Through their continued support and remembrance, they ensure that Justin’s spirit and legacy will forever be honored within their close-knit community.
Santa Clara University
During his time at Santa Clara University, Justin Ebner left an unforgettable mark on both the campus and the hearts of those who knew him. His passion for accounting was evident in his dedication to his studies and his eagerness to apply his knowledge and help tutor those who were struggling.
But Justin’s impact extended far beyond the classroom. With his warm and welcoming nature, he effortlessly formed deep connections with his fraternity brothers, extended friend groups, the Santa Clara Women’s volleyball team where he worked as a practice player, teachers, and staff.
Justin’s genuine kindness and unwavering support for the people around him made him not just an incredible friend, but a rock to many. He approached every interaction with a sincere desire to uplift others and make a positive difference in their lives.
His time at Santa Clara was filled with countless memories, laughter, and shared experiences that continue to resonate with those who were fortunate enough to have known him. Justin’s legacy at Santa Clara University remains a testament to the enduring impact of his friendships and his unwavering passion for accounting.
