Morgan Academy junior quarterback Caden Tellier has passed away after suffering a brain injury during his team's home opener on Friday night.
Morgan Academy has suffered a tragic loss following the passing of junior quarterback Caden Tellier. The promising athlete succumbed to his injuries on Saturday evening after sustaining a serious head injury during the third quarter of his team's 30-22 victory against Southern Academy in Selma, Alabama.
Tellier's tragic demise has sent shockwaves through the Morgan Academy community and beyond. Headmaster Bryan Oliver expressed his profound sorrow and paid tribute to the young man's unwavering faith and positive impact on the school.
Morgan Academy Football Player Caden Tellier Dies After Brain Injury
"It is with a heavy heart that I must inform you that Caden Tellier has gone to be with his Lord and Savior," Oliver said. "Caden loved the Lord with all his heart and was a shining light every day he graced the halls of Morgan Academy. He was a student, a friend, an athlete, and most importantly, a Christ follower."
Oliver acknowledged the immense pain and loss felt by the school community and extended their deepest condolences to Tellier's family and loved ones.
Morgan Academy Football Player Caden Tellier Dies After Brain Injury
"There are no words to describe how we feel as a school community and family. We will come together and support Jamie, Arsella, and Lyla with our whole hearts. We offer our deepest sympathy to the Telliers' extended family as well. I want to thank all the schools and individuals that have reached out during this difficult time. Caden will never be forgotten for who he was and what he means to Morgan Academy."
Initial confusion surrounding Tellier's health occurred on Saturday when a statement posted on the Alabama Independent School Association's Facebook page indicated a "tragic loss." However, the post was swiftly deleted and replaced with a clarification that Tellier had sustained a "tragic injury" and was in critical condition at the time.
Tellier's passing marks a second tragedy within Alabama high school football in the past ten days. On August 15, 14-year-old New Brockton High School freshman Semaj Wilkins collapsed and died during a practice.
Tellier was a multi-talented athlete who excelled not only on the football field but also in baseball. In his first year as the varsity football starter as a sophomore in 2023, he threw for 1,228 yards with seven touchdowns and four interceptions in eight games.
In baseball, Tellier's abilities were equally impressive. Last spring, he boasted a .311 batting average with two home runs and 10 RBIs.
The Alabama Independent School Association expressed its profound support for Morgan Academy during this heart-wrenching time.
"As a small school, Morgan Academy feels this tragedy even more deeply, and the Alabama Independent School Association is here to offer any support and resources to support them as they grieve," said Michael McLendon, the association's executive director.
Tellier's tragic departure leaves an unfillable void in the Morgan Academy community. He will forever be remembered for his unwavering spirit, kindness, and love of the game. The school has suspended all activities in the coming week to mourn the loss of their beloved student and athlete.
