“Alex was so much more than a dedicated and exemplary student-athlete at the University of Oregon,” Director of Athletics Rob Mullens said. “He was a son, a brother, a friend, a teammate, a leader, whose warm personality brought everyone together and whose contributions to the extended Oregon community will resonate long after today. On behalf of the UO family, we extend our sympathies to Alex’s family, and we will honor his memory each and every day.” (Ryan Kang/Freelance)

Alex James Rovello, born in Portland, Ore. to parents Jim and Geri Rovello passed away Saturday night following a cliff diving accident on the McKenzie River. (Ryan Kang/Freelance)

Head tennis coach Nils Schyllander speaks to junior Alex Rovello and his doubles partner, freshman Daan Maasland, during a brief pause in play during their match against the Arkansas Razorbacks. (Nate Barrett/Emerald)

Alex Rovello prepares to swing at a ball in the Ducks’ outdoor match against the Washington Huskies. (Ryan Kang/Freelance)

Oregon’s Alex Rovello lunges for the tennis ball during his 1-2 loss against Washington’s Max Manthou. (Ryan Kang/Freelance)

Originally from Portland, Ore., Rovello was a highly sought-after recruit, going 50-0 and winning four state championships in singles in his four year career at Cleveland High School. No other tennis player has one four state titles in Oregon 5A history. (Ryan Kang/Freelance)

Junior Alex Rovello celebrates with Daan Maasland after defeating Huskies-duo Emmett Egger and Hudson Barnhart, 8-6. (Ryan Kang/Freelance)

Rovello, a junior journalism major, was a star tennis player for the Ducks. (Ryan Kang/Freelance)

Rovello had a 21-8 match record in 2013, with 16 wins in the No. 2 and No. 3 spots (tied for eighth-best in school history). (Ryan Kang/Freelance)