Shelby Daniele, a recent graduate of California Polytechnic State University (Cal Poly) and a former track and field standout, passed away on September 25, 2024. She was 23 years old, and her death has left her family, friends, and the athletic community mourning her loss. Daniele was a six-time All-Big West honoree and a two-time Big West champion and held multiple school records at Cal Poly, where she recently completed her master’s degree in agriculture with distinction.
Daniele’s contributions to Cal Poly’s track and field program are remarkable. During her time at the university, she set the school record in the indoor 200 meters with a time of 24.69 seconds, ranked second in the women’s indoor 60 meters, and tied for the second-best women’s 100 meters record. Her name is also etched in the top three for the outdoor 200 meters. Daniele was more than just a top-tier athlete; she was a dedicated teammate and leader. Cal Poly Athletics expressed their grief by saying, “She cared deeply for those around her, had a remarkable heart and was a role model for so many.”
Before attending Cal Poly, Daniele excelled as a sprinter at Buchanan High School in Clovis, California, where she was instrumental in her team’s victory at the 2019 California State Meet. Her high school coach, Brian Weaver, fondly recalled her as an essential member of their team for her athletic abilities and the way she guided and supported younger athletes. He noted that she mentored numerous athletes, helping them through various challenges in their sport and life. Although a fiercely competitive athlete, she was also known for bringing joy and showing genuine care for everyone around her, making her a cherished figure within the team.
A candlelight memorial service was held for Daniele at Buchanan High School’s Veteran’s Memorial Stadium, where her name was lit up on the scoreboard in her honor. The community came together to celebrate her life and reflect on her impact on those around her. Weaver shared, “If people could just go and do that, love every minute that you have, she would want to be remembered for that.
Daniele’s sister, Jessica Reichman, shared a deeply emotional tribute following her sister’s untimely passing. In her Instagram post, she expressed the devastating impact of losing her sister, describing it as her worst nightmare come true on the morning of September 25, 2024. Jessica reflected on how her sister, also her best friend, had left Earth too quickly, acknowledging that while it was difficult to understand, her sister was now where she was meant to be.
Jessica also expressed her sorrow over being unable to share the rest of their lives, but she remained hopeful that they would find a way to move forward. She remembered her sister as a shining presence in everyone’s life, struggling with the reality that they could no longer speak, and ended by affirming her everlasting love for her.
Shelby Daniele’s athletic achievements and dedication to those around her will continue to inspire those who knew her. Her legacy as a fierce competitor and compassionate leader will not be forgotten.