The Morgan Academy community is mourning the loss of junior quarterback Caden Tellier, who tragically passed away after suffering a brain injury during the school’s first football game of the season against Southern Academy on Friday night.
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Incident Overview
Caden Tellier, a standout player for Morgan Academy, was injured during the third quarter while making a tackle. The injury, which occurred in the midst of a closely contested game, left Tellier in critical condition. He was immediately transported to a local hospital, where, despite medical efforts, he succumbed to his injuries on Saturday.
Key Details:
| Event | Details |
|---|---|
| Date of Incident | Friday, August 23, 2024 |
| Injury Occurrence | Third quarter of the game |
| Game Opponent | Southern Academy |
| Game Outcome | Morgan Academy won 30-22 |
| Caden’s Contributions | Threw for a touchdown, rushed for a touchdown |
| Medical Response | Taken to local hospital in critical condition |
| Date of Passing | Saturday, August 24, 2024 |
| School’s Response | All activities suspended for the week |
Community Response and Tributes
The news of Caden’s passing has left the Morgan Academy and the broader Alabama Independent School Association (AISA) in deep sorrow. Dr. Bryan Oliver, headmaster of Morgan Academy, expressed the profound grief felt by the school community, stating, “There are no words to describe how we feel as a school community and family. We will come together and support Jamie, Arsella, and Lyla with our whole hearts. We offer our deepest sympathy to the Tellier’s extended family as well.”
Morgan Academy, a small private school located in Selma, Alabama, with just 339 students ranging from kindergarten to 12th grade, has been particularly affected by this tragedy. All school activities have been suspended for the week as students, staff, and families mourn the loss of a beloved community member.
A Life of Impact
Caden Tellier was more than just a talented athlete; he was known for his kindness, generosity, and love, traits that have left a lasting impact on those who knew him. In a statement, the Tellier family shared, “Lives have been touched by the way he lived and now lives will be saved through his passing.” This is a reference to the family’s decision to donate Caden’s organs, a final act of generosity that aligns with the values he lived by.
Caden Tellier’s Legacy:
| Attribute | Details |
|---|---|
| Role | Junior Quarterback |
| Character | Kindness, Generosity, Love |
| Achievements in Game | Threw for a touchdown, rushed for a touchdown |
| Legacy Contribution | Organ donation to save lives |
The Road Ahead for Morgan Academy
The passing of Caden Tellier has united the Morgan Academy community in grief and remembrance. The school’s new head coach, who was leading his first game, along with players and staff, are receiving an outpouring of support from neighboring schools and communities.
Michael McLendon, executive director of the AISA, has called for the entire AISA family and the people of Alabama to join in prayer for peace and comfort for Caden’s family and the Morgan Academy community as they navigate this difficult time.
Final Thoughts
Caden’s passing is a stark reminder of the risks associated with contact sports and the importance of player safety. His legacy will continue to inspire and save lives through the generosity of his family’s decision to donate his organs. Caden will be remembered not just for his achievements on the field, but for the kindness and love he shared with those around him.
For further updates and community tributes, stay connected with Morgan Academy and the Alabama Independent School Association.