Sarah Shulze death – Family of Wisconsin student-athlete confirm 21-year-old’s cause of death as suicide

A COLLEGE athlete at the University of Wisconsin has died by suicide her family has confirmed.

Sarah Shulze, 21, was a decorated student-athlete and exceptional student according to VC Star.

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She was an active community member in her hometown of Oak Park, CA, was the senior class secretary at her high school and a member of the Associated Student Body.

She was an exceptional cross-country runner for Oak High School. Shulze earned the Coastal Canyon League title, a CIF-Southern Section Division 3 championship and a runner-up finish in the CIF-State Division III finals during her season year according to the outlet.

However even with all of those accomplishments, she still battled with mental health.

In 2018, she was named The Star’s Runner of the Year and was awarded a scholarship to the University of Wisconsin.

“Balancing athletics, academics and the demands of every day life overwhelmed her in a single, desperate moment,” the family shared on a website posting about the passing.

Shulze is survived by her parents, Brigitte and Scott, and her sisters Abbey and Ella.

She was described as a caring, energetic, and gentle soul by those who knew her best.

The family hopes that this situation will shed light on how difficult mental health issues can be.

Tributes from classmates and teachers from Shulze’s former schools have been expressing their feelings about her passing.

“The world is a better place for Sarah having been part of it,” athletic director Tim Chevalier told VC Star.

The University of Wisconsin community stated that it’s heartbroken by the news.

“We extend our deepest sympathies and sincere condolences to Sarah’s family, friends and Badger teammates during this extraordinarily difficult time. Our primary focus is the support of the Shulze family and our student-athletes,” the university statement continued.

A Celebration of Life will be held on May 2 at Calvary Community Church in Westlake Village. The family stated that all are welcome.

Another ceremony will be held at the University of Wisconsin.

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