Rip Current Rescue Leaves UNCW Coach Hospitalized in Wrightsville Beach, NC
Rip Current Rescue Leaves UNCW Coach Hospitalized in Wrightsville Beach, NC
US · Published May 29, 2026
On May 21, 2026, Nicole Woods, the head coach of the University of North Carolina Wilmington (UNCW) women's basketball team, nearly drowned while rescuing her 8-year-old nephew from a rip current at Wrightsville Beach, North Carolina.
Woods, a strong swimmer, entered the water after her nephew was swept under by a wave.
Both became trapped in the powerful current.

Why It's Important?

Rip currents pose a significant danger to swimmers, even those with strong swimming skills like Coach Woods. This incident highlights the life-threatening risks associated with these ocean phenomena. Woods' nephew was also hospitalized for observation but is expected to recover fully. The event underscores the importance of rip current awareness and the need for immediate action by trained rescuers. Bystanders who attempt rescues without proper training may also put themselves at risk, as seen in this case where multiple individuals entered the water to assist.

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