Track Star Shelby Daniele Dies at 23 from Brain Aneurysm

Shelby Daniele, a standout sprinter for Cal Poly’s track and field team, tragically passed away on September 25 at age 23 due

to a brain aneurysm. The cause of death was shared by Brian Brandenburg, father of a fellow Cal Poly athlete, in a heartfelt Facebook tribute.

Daniele, remembered as a dedicated athlete and leader, served as team captain and earned six All-Big West honors during her

five-year collegiate career. She set the school’s indoor 200m record with a time of 24.69 seconds and won two Big West championships.

Beyond athletics, Shelby was equally driven academically. She earned her bachelor’s degree in agriculture in 2023 and completed

her master’s with distinction in June 2024. A California native, she attended Buchanan High School before

joining Cal Poly and worked at her family’s almond and walnut farm, Jalonen Ranches, as a Field Assistant Manager.

Cal Poly Athletics expressed deep sorrow in a statement, calling Shelby “an incredible teammate, leader, and role model with a remarkable heart.”

Shelby was an inspiration to many, including Eva Brandenburg, who joined Cal Poly’s team because of her.

Her untimely passing has left a deep void in the Cal Poly community and beyond.