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A beloved former collegiate track star known for her talent and compassion has passed away leaving behind a lasting legacy.
Life is fragile and the sudden loss of a promising young life has sent waves of grief through the California Polytechnic State University community.
Former track star and standout student-athlete, who competed for the Cal Poly Mustangs, passed away tragically at just 23 years old.
The beloved sprinter, remembered for her indomitable spirit and passion, died on September 24, just months after graduating with her master's degree.
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Her passing was announced by Cal Poly’s athletic department on Friday, September 27.
Shelby Daniele, a two-time Big West champion and six-time All-Big West honoree, had made an indelible mark on the track, but it was her off-the-track character that resonated with those who knew her best.
“Shelby was an exceptional student-athlete on the Cal Poly track and field team for five years, graduating from Cal Poly this spring with her master’s in agriculture with distinction,” the school said in a heartfelt Instagram statement.
“She was a six-time All-Big West honoree, a two-time Big West champion, a team captain and is a school record holder, but more importantly, she was an incredible teammate and leader.”
The tribute, steeped in emotion, emphasized not just her accolades, but her compassionate and vibrant presence.
Shelby’s death has left a void in the hearts of her family, friends, and teammates, who admired her not just for her fierce competitive spirit but also for the deep care she extended to those around her.
"She cared deeply for those around her, had a remarkable heart and was a role model for so many," the university continued.
"Shelby was truly one of a kind and will be missed dearly by everyone in the Cal Poly community."
Before her time at Cal Poly, Shelby’s talents had already been evident at Buchanan High School in Fresno, California, where she was a central figure in the school’s track and field success.
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Brian Weaver, her high school track coach, recalled Shelby as a determined and passionate young athlete who mentored her peers and supported them through tough times.
“She was a big part of our family,” Weaver told local news outlet Your Central Valley.
“It was a great athlete coaching experience for me because we had to get through some things together. That is a memory that I will have forever.”
As a high school athlete, Shelby led her team to a state championship in 2019, clinching the title with a first-place finish in the 200-meter race.
Her raw talent, combined with a fierce work ethic, set her apart. But it was her character that stood out the most to those who knew her.
“She mentored so many athletes. Kept them going when times were tough — after graduating she would take her personal time to come say hi to all the coaches and athletes. She was an extremely, extremely fierce competitor but had so much love and joy for every person that she was around,” Weaver added.
Weaver shared a bittersweet memory of having seen Shelby just a week before her passing.
“She always made time for her old coach,” he said, his voice heavy with sorrow.
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As those who knew her grapple with the pain of her untimely passing, many are comforted by memories of her contagious positivity.
“She loved everything,” Weaver said, describing her passion for life.
“If people could just go and do that, love every minute that you have, she would want to be remembered for that. She lived life to the fullest.”
The cause of her death has not been publicly disclosed, and the community continues to mourn the loss of a bright young woman who brought so much light and joy to those around her.
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