USA Swimming has released support information for the family of swimmer Matt Mauser, who lost his wife Christina in the tragic Los Angeles helicopter crash that also killed Kobe Bryant and his 13-year-old daughter Gianna.
In addition to Christina, Kobe and Gianna, five other passengers died in the Jan. 26 crash, as did the pilot.
Matt was All-American swimmer at Cal Poly-San Luis Obispo, water polo player, and lifeguard. He is now a Spanish and music teacher at Harbor Day School in Corona del Mar, CA.
Christina was a basketball coach at the same school, which their daughter Penny attended with Gianna. She also was an assistant coach for Bryant’s travel team and was flying to a basketball tournament at Bryant’s Mamba Academy when the helicopter crashed.
“[Kobe] saw what an amazing mind she had for basketball,” Matt told Today. “They called her the ‘Mother of Defense,’ MOD. It was a family. They all really cared about each other.”
In addition to Matt, Christina is survived by Penny, 11; and another daughter, 4-year-old Ivy; and her 9-year-old son, Thomas. Family and friends gathered to remember Christina Sunday at a private service in Huntington Beach, USA Swimming said.
“I got three small kids, and I’m trying to figure out how to navigate life with three kids and no mom,” Matt continued with Today. “I’m scared. I think more than anything I’m a little scared about the future.”
Those wishing to support the family can contribute to the Mauser children’s 529 educational funds: