The University of Wisconsin campus mourns the loss of a beloved track and cross country star.
Sarah Shulze, 21, committed suicide on April 13, according to her family.
“The balance of athletics, college, and the demands of everyday life overwhelmed her in a single, desperate moment,” Shulze’s family said. “Like you, we are shocked and wracked with grief as we hold tight to all that Sarah was.”
The California-born runner was a junior and a member of the Cross Country, Indoor Track, and Outdoor Track teams at the University of Wisconsin.
Wisconsin officials released a statement Friday regarding the beloved student, who was described as a gentle soul and an excellent student athlete.
“The Wisconsin Athletics community is heartbroken at the unexpected death of Sarah Shulze,” he said university said. “We extend our deepest sympathy and sincere condolences to Sarah’s family, friends and Badger teammates at this extraordinarily difficult time.”
She received All Big Ten academic honors in 2020 and 2021 for Cross Country and 2021 when she ran in Wisconsin.
A 2019 graduate of Oak Park High, Shulze was a star distance runner at her high school. She was named Ventura County Athlete of the Year and received a 2018 scholarship to Wisconsin.
Shulze’s family established the Sarah Shulze Foundation to promote and support women’s rights, student athletes, and mental health.
Funeral services have been announced at both the University of Wisconsin Madison and California. The UW Madison service will be held on campus on April 24 from 5 to 8 p.m
Worship in California will be held at 3:00 p.m. on May 2 at Calvary Community Church.
Shulze is survived by her parents, Brigitte and Scott, and her sisters, Abbey and Ella.
If you are struggling with suicidal thoughts or having a mental health crisis and live in New York City, you can call 1-888-NYC-WELL toll-free and confidential crisis advice. If you live outside the five counties, you can call the 24/7 National Suicide Prevention Hotline at 1-800-273-8255 or go to SuicidePreventionLifeline.org.
https://nypost.com/2022/04/24/university-of-wisconsin-track-star-sarah-shulze-dead-at-21/ University of Wisconsin track star Sarah Shulze has died aged 21