Update:
Former Cal Poly Track Star Shelby Daniele Dies at 23—Cause of Death Revealed
The sports world is mourning the tragic loss of former Cal Poly track and field standout Shelby Daniele, who passed away unexpectedly at just 23 years old. Her death, which occurred on September 25, has now been attributed to a brain aneurysm, according to a heartfelt Facebook tribute by Brian Brandenburg, the father of one of Daniele’s fellow Cal Poly athletes.
The Cal Poly community is mourning the heartbreaking loss of former track and field standout Shelby Daniele, who passed away unexpectedly on September 25 at just 23 years old. Her death was recently confirmed to have been caused by a brain aneurysm, according to a tribute post shared on Facebook by Brian Brandenburg, the father of one of her former teammates.
Brandenburg’s emotional message, posted on National Daughters Day, honored his own daughters, Tori and Eva—while also recognizing the profound impact Daniele had on Eva’s life. He called Shelby the “driving force” behind Eva’s decision to run for Cal Poly, underscoring the deep inspiration and mentorship Shelby offered both on and off the track.
According to the Mayo Clinic, a brain aneurysm is a bulge in a blood vessel in the brain that can become life-threatening if it ruptures. While many aneurysms go unnoticed, a rupture can lead to sudden and severe complications requiring immediate medical care.
Shelby Daniele was more than just a gifted athlete—she was a record-breaker, a leader, and a scholar. As reported by The Daily Mail, she set Cal Poly’s indoor 200-meter record in 2023 with a time of 24.69 seconds and competed with the Mustangs from 2020 to 2024. Her dedication and performance earned her the role of team captain, six All-Big West honors, and two Big West championship titles.
Off the track, Shelby was equally accomplished. She earned her bachelor’s degree in agriculture in 2023 and completed her master’s degree just this past June. A proud California native, she graduated from Buchanan High School before attending Cal Poly. She also worked as a Field Assistant Manager at her family’s business—Jalonen Ranches, an almond and walnut farm in Caruthers.
Shelby Daniele leaves behind a legacy of excellence, leadership, and compassion. Her passing is a devastating loss to all who knew her—but her spirit and influence will live on in the lives she touched.
Cal Poly’s athletic department shared a heartfelt tribute on Instagram Friday, expressing deep sorrow over the loss of Shelby Daniele. In their statement, they honored her not only as a talented athlete but as someone known for her “remarkable heart and spirit.” While the university did not publicly disclose the cause of death, their message reflected the profound impact Shelby had on the campus community and her teammates.
“Cal Poly Athletics was deeply saddened to learn of the recent passing of former student-athlete Shelby Daniele,” the department shared in a statement. “Shelby was known not only for her talent on the track, but for her remarkable heart, spirit, and the positive impact she had on those around her.”
“Shelby was an exceptional student-athlete who competed on the Cal Poly track and field team for five years,” the statement read. “She graduated this spring with her master’s degree in agriculture—with distinction.”
“A six-time All-Big West honoree, two-time Big West champion, team captain, and school record holder, Shelby’s athletic accomplishments were extraordinary. But more than that, she was an incredible teammate, a natural leader, and someone who truly cared for those around her. Her remarkable heart and character made her a role model for so many.”
“Shelby was truly one of a kind and will be missed dearly by everyone in the Cal Poly community. Our heartfelt condolences go out to her family, friends, and all those whose lives she touched. 💚💛”
Rest in Peace.