Melanie Coleman Obituary
In Loving Memory of Melanie Coleman
Southern Connecticut State University mourns the tragic loss of Melanie Coleman, a dedicated student-athlete and beloved member of the community. Melanie, a 20-year-old junior on the university’s gymnastics team, passed away on Sunday, November 10th, 2019, following a severe injury sustained during a practice session.
On Friday, November 8th, Melanie was training at the New Era Training Facility in Hamden when she suffered a serious accident while practicing on the uneven bars. Despite immediate treatment from her CPR-certified coach and subsequent medical care at Yale-New Haven Hospital, Melanie succumbed to her injuries two days later.
“Melanie was a bright student, an excellent athlete, and a cherished member of the Southern Connecticut community,” said Jay Moran, SCSU’s Director of Athletics. “This has been devastating to her coaches and teammates, and we hope to support them in this very difficult time. The entire Southern athletics family is greatly saddened by her loss.”
Melanie’s head coach, Mary Fredericks, expressed profound grief, stating, “We are heartbroken and stunned by Melanie’s passing. She was an incredibly hard worker and a sweet-spirited young woman. Our thoughts and prayers continue to go out to her family at this time. The SCSU Gymnastics team will miss her greatly though she will always be with us.”
Melanie, a Milford native, pursuing a degree in nursing. In addition, known for her dedication both in and out of the gym. She graduated from Jonathan Law High School, where she earned accolades as team captain, most valuable player, and all-state gymnast. Melanie joined the SCSU Owls in the 2017-18 academic year, competing alongside her older sister Tiffany until Tiffany’s graduation.
Throughout her college career, Melanie distinguished herself as a standout student-athlete. Thus, earning All-America Scholar-Athlete honors from USA Gymnastics and Scholastic All-American recognition from the Women’s Collegiate Gymnastics Association. Contributed to her community as a result of volunteering as a youth instructor at New Era Gymnastics.
Jerry Nelson, Melanie’s former head coach, reflected on her positive impact, stating, “Melanie was an extraordinary young lady that positively touched all who knew her. She was a true team player, a hard worker, and a true pleasure to coach. I’m extremely grateful that I had the opportunity to coach her.”
Furthermore, in the wake of this heartbreaking loss, a GoFundMe page and MealTrain have become established to support Melanie’s family, including her parents and four siblings. The GoFundMe campaign has raised over $32,000, with contributions continuing to pour in.
“Melanie gained her angel wings tonight and was able to give life to others,” reads a heartfelt message on the GoFundMe page. “The support from this page and the meal train is graciously received by the family. Please continue to share these two pages within the community as the family grapples with the unconscionable realities of Melly’s passing.”
A service in honor of Melanie’s life, planned near her former home in Massachusetts. Melanie Coleman, remembered for her incredible spirit, dedication. Lastly, the profound impact she had on everyone who knew her.
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