EMMANUEL MOURNS THE LOSS OF WOMEN'S SOCCER PLAYER SHELBY OLSEN '22

BOSTON, Mass. – The Emmanuel College athletic department and community mourns the loss of Shelby Olsen '22 following her sudden passing on June 20, 2019. Olsen, a rising sophomore and member of the Women's Soccer program, died in a motor vehicle accident this past Thursday at the age of 19.

A International Affairs and Communications major originally from Gales Ferry, Conn. and residing in Charlestown, R.I., Olsen was known by members of the College community as an intelligent, articulate and animated young woman that was adored by all.

In her first season as a member of the Women's Soccer program, Olsen appeared in four contests during the 2018 campaign with the Saints. She made her collegiate debut on September 5 in a 5-0 victory over Dean College and registered her first collegiate point with an assist in an 8-0 GNAC win over Anna Maria College on October 13. Emmanuel posted a 4-0 record in matches that she appeared in, outscoring opponents by a 24-1 margin in those wins.

"Shelby was a bright light for our program and Emmanuel College. She embodied what it meant to be a Saint," said Women's Soccer Head Coach Greg Visinho. "My heart goes out to all her teammates, coaching staff, faculty, friends and family."

Along with Women's Soccer, Shelby was an excellent student at Emmanuel, maintaining a 4.0 GPA. She was an active member of the EC community, taking part in activities through Mission & Ministry, including serving as a student leader for the Take48 Retreat, and also working at the Corner Pocket game room in St. Joseph's hall.

"The news of Shell's passing was devastating to the EC women's soccer family but the outpouring of love and remembrance over the past 24 hours shows how much she was loved by our community," said Dan Campagna, Assistant Athletic Director and Women's Soccer Assistant Coach. "Our thoughts and prayers are with Shelby's family, friends, coaches and teammates."

Visitation hours will be held on Tuesday, June 25 from 5:00 PM to 7:00 PM at the Neilan & Sons Funeral Home.

A mass of Christian Burial will be held on Wednesday, June 26 at 10:00 AM at Our Lady of Lourdes Catholic Church. Interment will be private.

The Emmanuel community asks that you keep Shelby's family and friends in your thoughts and prayers during this difficult time.

In lieu of flowers, please continue Shelby's legacy with a donation in her name to the Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Scholarship Trust Fund, via mlktrustfund.org or by mail to PO Box 1308, New London, Conn. 06320.

Online condolences may be shared with Shelby's family at www.neilanfuneralhome.com

Click this link to plant a tree in memory of Shelby Olsen.

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