Athletics community mourns the death of 21-year-old, fuelling calls for urgent mental health support

Published

3 years ago

April 27, 2022

Holly Stearnes

The sporting world is mourning the loss of 21-year-old American athletics star Sarah Shulze who has died by suicide, fuelling urgent calls for mental health support

Sarah Shulze tragically took her own life, leaving her family and the sporting community devastated and helpless.

The University of Wisconsin track and cross country star has been described as a gentle soul and wonderful student.

Her family confirmed the tragic loss of their daughter in a moving statement.

“Balancing athletics, academics and the demands of every-day life overwhelmed her in a single, desperate moment,”
“Like you, we are shocked and grief-stricken while holding on tightly to all that Sarah was.”
“Above all other things, Sarah was a power for good in the world,”

Shulze family statement

University of Wisconsin officials have also sent their deepest condolences, saying they’re heartbroken by the unexpected passing.

“Sarah was a beloved daughter, sister, granddaughter, friend, teammate and Badger student-athlete,” the school said.
“We extend our deepest sympathies and sincere condolences to Sarah’s family, friends and Badger teammates during this extraordinarily difficult time.”
University of wisconsin

The Wisconsin Athletics community is heartbroken by the unexpected passing of Sarah Shulze pic.twitter.com/HNXK8KvJ1Q
— Wisconsin Badgers (@UWBadgers) April 22, 2022

Mental health crisis

Shulze’s family has announced they will be launching a foundation to drive support for women’s rights, student athletes, and mental health.

The young athlete’s death has sparked a widespread call for further education abound mental illness.

Disturbingly, suicide is the second-leading cause of death for college students in America, according to the Centres for Disease Control and Prevention.

In the last two months, athletes Katie Meyer, 22, and Lauren Bernett, 20 also took their own lives.

This is fuelling concerns about a broader mental health crisis among college athletes and the pressure they face.

Athlete’s around the world are now using their social media platforms to raise awareness about mental illness, calling for more education and support.

https://twitter.com/OLReign/status/1500324094624952327?s=20&t=FmtWaG6HInytYDwj7I3SUg

Our statement on the passing of Sarah Shulze ❤️ pic.twitter.com/Wg7a31TITO
— UNCUT Madison (@uncut_madison) April 24, 2022

We must commit resources to #MentalHealth and the overall well being of our young people. Pay attention to those who may be reaching out for help. My thoughts and prayers go out to the Shulze family and Badger Nation. #SarahShulze
— Matthew Welsh, RAA (@MatthewWelshAD) April 24, 2022

Related Topics:america athletics sport wisconsin

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