Morgan Rodgers Death & Obituary: Duke University Women’s Lacrosse Player and Bright Spirit

Morgan Rodgers Death & Obituary: Morgan Dupé Rodgers, a talented athlete and cherished member of the Duke University women’s lacrosse team, tragically passed away at the age of 22. Born on May 27, 1997, in Fairfax, Virginia, Morgan’s life was a testament to athletic excellence, academic dedication, and a heartwarming ability to touch the lives of everyone around her.

A Rising Star in Lacrosse and Beyond

Hailing from Warrenton, Virginia, Morgan excelled as a lacrosse player at Kettle Run High School. Her high school career was marked by numerous accolades, including being a three-time conference player of the year and a two-time Brine High School All-American. She also earned a spot on the Under Armour All-America Underclass teams in 2013 and 2014. Over her 56-game career, she recorded an astounding 303 goals, 63 assists, and 460 draw controls, solidifying her status as a standout athlete.

Morgan’s talents extended beyond lacrosse. A four-year letter winner in field hockey, she twice earned conference player of the year honors and was named a US Lacrosse Academic All-American during her senior year.

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Challenges at Duke University

Morgan continued her lacrosse journey as a midfielder at Duke University, making her debut during the 2016 season. However, a devastating knee injury in her sophomore year sidelined her for the 2017 season, drastically altering her trajectory. The level-three tears to her ACL and MCL marked the beginning of a challenging period for Morgan, both physically and mentally.

Her recovery was grueling, and the transition from being an elite athlete to facing limitations took a significant toll. Though she briefly found joy playing club lacrosse after leaving the team, the challenges of this period highlighted the struggles many athletes face when their identities are intertwined with their sport.

A Hidden Battle with Mental Health

While Morgan was known for her radiant personality and selflessness, she quietly struggled with anxiety and depression. Friends and teammates recall her as a compassionate, thoughtful individual who prioritized the needs of others. Despite this, she often concealed her own pain.

On July 11, 2019, Morgan tragically died by suicide, leaving her loved ones and the sports community devastated.

A Legacy of Awareness: Morgan’s Message

In the wake of Morgan’s passing, her family and friends founded Morgan’s Message, a nonprofit organization dedicated to promoting mental health awareness among student-athletes. The initiative aims to break the stigma surrounding mental health struggles and encourages open conversations about seeking help. Morgan’s Message has since become a beacon of hope, inspiring athletes to prioritize their mental well-being and supporting those facing similar challenges.

Remembering Morgan Rodgers

Morgan’s life and legacy are reminders of the importance of compassion and understanding. Her story continues to resonate, urging society to prioritize mental health and provide better resources for young athletes.

Morgan is remembered not only for her remarkable athletic achievements but also for her kindness, love, and the light she brought to those who knew her. She leaves behind a legacy of hope, awareness, and the call to support one another in every aspect of life.

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