Shelby Daniele, a former track and field star at Cal Poly and Buchanan High, tragically passed away at just 23 years old, only months after earning her master’s degree in agriculture. Her sudden death left her family, friends, and the athletic communities at both her college and high school in Fresno, California, in shock.
Shelby was well-known for her record-breaking performances in track and field, her academic excellence, and her kind, generous heart.
As news of Shelby’s passing spread, people from her hometown and loved ones began to share their grief and memories.
On September 26, 2024, the Cal Poly Track and Field team announced Shelby’s death through an emotional Instagram post. The post expressed the team’s deep sorrow and highlighted Shelby’s remarkable contributions during her five years as an athlete at the university. It celebrated not only her athletic achievements but also her academic success and her leadership as a team captain.
“Shelby was truly one of a kind and will be missed dearly by everyone in the Cal Poly community,” the post read, showing just how much she meant to those around her.
Buchanan High School, where Shelby’s journey as a track star first began, also shared their sadness in a Facebook post. The school remembered her outstanding performance at the 2019 California State Meet, where she won the 200-meter race and helped lead her team to a championship.
They didn’t just focus on her athletic talent—they also described Shelby as a warm, generous person who continued to support the track program even after she had graduated.
Shelby’s high school track coach, Brian Weaver, had nothing but praise for her. He said, “Shelby was everything you want a young athlete to be.” He fondly remembered how Shelby led her team to victories and always worked to improve, both as an athlete and a person.
Coach Weaver shared a special memory from the 2019 state championships. After a long weekend of races, Shelby came up to him, clearly exhausted, and said, “Coach, I’m so tired and sore, but I’m going to keep going for the team.”
Shelby’s sudden passing has left a deep impact on everyone who knew her. She will be remembered not only for her incredible achievements on the track but also for her kindness and dedication to others. Her legacy lives on in the hearts of her family, friends, and the countless people whose lives she touched.
Feel free to share your thoughts and memories of Shelby in the comments below.
