Schools come together to mourn the loss of Morgan Academy quarterback Caden Tellier
Tellier passed away after suffering sustaining a brain injury on the field in his participation in Selma Private School’s opener at home on on Friday night.
Reaction is pouring in over social media following the death of Morgan Academy quarterback Caden Tellier, who died Saturday after sustaining a brain injury in the Selma private school’s home opener Friday night.
“It is with a heavy heart that I must inform you that Caden Tellier has gone to be with his Lord and Savior,” Morgan Academy Headmaster Bryan Oliver wrote on the school’s Facebook page. “Caden was a lover of the Lord with all his heart, and was a shining bright every day that when he ran through the halls of Morgan Academy. He was an instructor, a friend an athlete and, most importantly, an Christ following disciple.
“There aren’t any words to describe our feelings as our school community and family. We will unite and be there for Jamie, Arsella and Lyla with all our hearts. We send our heartfelt condolences to the extended family of the Tellier as well.”
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Private and public schools as well as long-time rivals of Morgan Academy, have posted messages of support and encouragement on social media platforms.
“We would like to extend our deepest sympathies to the Tellier Family, Morgan Academy and all who loved and knew Caden,” A post posted on the Prattville High School Athletics Facebook page says. “We wish you nothing but comfort and strength during this difficult time.”
The Alabama Independent Schools Association is seeking prayers.
“Please keep our friends at Morgan Academy in your thoughts and prayers during this difficult time,” was the message in an article on the page of the association on Facebook..
The AISA is an entire family, and we’ll stand in the void of prayers for his family, friends, family members as well as the entire student body from (Morgan Academy) throughout the weeks and days to follow.
Hooper Academy Facebook page
Hooper Academy quoted a Bible verse in its blog post: “He heals the brokenhearted and binds up their wounds,” Psalms 147:3.
“Hooper Academy extends its sincerest thoughts and prayers to the family of Caden Tellier, a standout student athlete at Morgan Academy who tragically lost his life after an injury Friday night,” the announcement read. “The AISA is truly a family, and we will stand in the gap in prayer for his friends, loved ones and the entire student body of MAS in the days and weeks to come.” The school has changed its Facebook profile picture to show a yellow and red ribbon.
Morgan was playing at Southern Academy and Caden, 16, a junior player, was injured during the 3rd quarter. He was transported by air to the Birmingham hospital.
“I want to thank all the schools and individuals that have reached out during this difficult time,” Oliver wrote on the school’s facebook page. “Caden will never be forgotten for who he was and what he means to Morgan Academy.”
Parents Arsella Tellier Slagel and Jamie Tellier posted on their Facebook pages on Saturday night that Caden passed away. Caden was an organ donation.
“Our boy, Caden Tellier has met Jesus face to face,” the blog post says. “We are grateful for all of your prayers, and we want prayers for the difficult days to come.
“Everyone who has met Caden has experienced kindness, generosity and affection and, true to his character, he has decided to give of himself once more. Many lives have been touched by his life and will now be saved because of his passing. We’ll be walking out the coming days in his mortal body and know of his eternal spirit celebrating in heaven.”
The post stated that arrangements for the service would be announced soon.
A GoFundMe was set up in the name of Kristen Jones of Selma. By 6 p.m. Sunday, it was able to raise more than $67,000, which is more than its $75,000 goal, with more than 500 contributions made.
Morgan has taken a break from all sports activities, including games and practices this week according to according to the Selma Times-Journal reported. The publication cited a letter that was sent the Morgan families.
“We will plan to have school on Monday,” the message says. “We have made arrangements for several pastors to be present on campus to help students in a variety ways. If you are able to spend time with your child outside of school hours, take advantage of it. Mondays will be differently for us, but our goal is to offer a safe space where students can feel secure and valued.”
Contact Montgomery Advertiser reporter Marty Roney at djgain2005@gmail.com.