Shelby Daniele, a 23-year-old standout track athlete at Cal Poly and six-time All-Big West honoree, passed away from a brain aneurysm, leaving behind a legacy of excellence and inspiration among her teammates.

Daniele's untimely death not only marks a tragic loss for her family and friends but also reverberates throughout the Cal Poly athletics community, where she was celebrated as an outstanding competitor, school record holder, and leader. With her achievements—including being a two-time Big West champion and a master's degree graduate—Daniele inspired many young athletes, and her legacy will continue to impact those who knew her, including teammates and aspiring athletes across the region.

Daniele was not only known for her remarkable athletic prowess but also for her academic achievements. Graduating with distinction, she earned a master's degree in agriculture from Cal Poly, underscoring her commitment to both her studies and her sport. Her academic excellence paralleled her athletic accomplishments, which included holding the school record in women's indoor track events for the 200-meter at an impressive time of 24.69 seconds.

During her competitive career at Cal Poly from 2020 to 2024, Daniele's contributions to the track and field program were significant. As a six-time All-Big West honoree and a two-time Big West champion, she established herself as a formidable presence on the track. Her final collegiate performance came in May 2024 when she finished 43rd at the NCAA West Preliminaries, marking the end of a celebrated athletic journey.

Daniele was originally from Clovis, California, where she first gained recognition by winning the CIF State title in the 200 meters during her high school career. Her decision to attend Cal Poly was driven by a desire for growth in both academics and athletics, combined with the advantage of being close to home. This decision ultimately paved the way for her to leave a lasting mark on the athletics program.

In the wake of her passing, her family organized a candlelight memorial service at sunset at Buchanan High School, bringing together friends, teammates, and community members to honor her memory. The gathering served as a poignant reminder of the impact she had on those around her, highlighting the love and respect she garnered throughout her life.

Social media has also become a platform for tributes to Daniele. Her sister shared a heartfelt message on Instagram expressing deep sorrow over the loss of her sister. Alongside family, friends, and teammates, the wider community has reflected on the warm spirit and dedication that Daniele embodied both on and off the track.

Brian Brandenburg, a father of a fellow athlete, shared a thoughtful Facebook post regarding Daniele's influence on his daughter Eva's decision to pursue track at Cal Poly. This sentiment echoes the views of many in the athletics community, who recognized Daniele as an incredible teammate and leader. Her positive influence stretched far beyond her individual accomplishments.

As tributes pour in, it's clear that Shelby Daniele's legacy will not be defined solely by her records and titles but by the heart she brought to her sport and the inspiration she provided to others. From her achievements as a collegiate athlete to her personal qualities as a friend and mentor, Daniele's impact will resonate long into the future, encouraging others to strive for excellence in their pursuits.

The Cal Poly Track and Field program, where Daniele was regarded as a beacon of talent and determination, now faces the challenge of moving forward in the context of their profound loss. As they reflect on her contributions, the memories of her accomplishments and character will serve as guiding principles for the team, reminding all involved of her dedication and spirit.

As the community continues to mourn her death, Shelby Daniele will be remembered not only for her competitive spirit and academic success but for the countless lives she touched during her time at Cal Poly. The legacy she leaves behind is one of unyielded passion, commitment to goals, and the unspoken bond shared among athletes striving for greatness.