Emily McNamara, a highly regarded assistant coach for the women’s hockey team at Middlebury College, tragically passed away on September 11 at the age of 42. Her death follows a grave car accident that occurred nearly six months prior, illustrating the ongoing impact of her injuries sustained during the incident.
:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc():format(jpeg)/Emily-McNamara-091626-af6fe583d11641488dc4054017626d3f.jpg)
The tragic event unfolded on March 22 when McNamara was involved in a two-vehicle crash on Route 74 in Cornwall, Vermont. Reports indicate that she lost control of her Toyota 4Runner during adverse snowy conditions, leading her vehicle to collide with an oncoming construction truck carrying a trailer. Initially, she was rushed to the University of Vermont Medical Center with serious injuries, where she remained under medical care until her untimely death.
The athletics department at Middlebury College confirmed McNamara’s passing to the community last week. Ian Baucom, the president of Middlebury, expressed the deep sorrow shared among faculty and students in a heartfelt statement. “We have been in touch with Emily’s family to share our sorrow and our full support during this difficult time,” he conveyed, noting the significant loss felt by the women’s hockey team and athletics staff.
Baucom further commented on the profound impact McNamara had on those around her, stating, “Emily’s husband Dave, all her family, her colleagues, the students on the team, and everyone who knew her are deeply in our hearts.” The shockwaves of her death resonate deeply within the college community, reflecting the bonds formed through sports and shared experiences.
Notably, Emily McNamara was not only an assistant coach but also an esteemed alumnus of Middlebury College, graduating in 2007. Her dedication to women’s hockey was evident, as she previously served as head coach at Hamilton College, where she earned recognition as Division III coach of the year for the 2022-23 season. The college expressed its condolences, highlighting McNamara’s enduring legacy. “Coach Mac’s legacy lives on in every player she coached and every life she touched along the way,” stated Hamilton College in a tribute shared across social media platforms.
During her time at Middlebury as a player, McNamara was integral to the hockey team, contributing to their historic achievement of winning three consecutive national championships from 2004 to 2006. Her commitment to the sport and her athletes was unwavering, and she continued to inspire many through her coaching career.
McNamara’s contributions to the sport and her role as a mentor are fondly remembered by those who had the privilege of knowing her, making her sudden passing a significant loss to the hockey community. As tributes pour in from former players and colleagues alike, a picture emerges of a dedicated and passionate individual who positively influenced the lives she touched.
In light of this tragic event, it is imperative for the community to rally together in remembrance of McNamara’s vibrant spirit and the significant impact she made in collegiate athletics. Her legacy will undoubtedly carry on through the memories of those she coached and inspired, ensuring that her contributions to women’s hockey continue to be celebrated.
As the situation unfolds, Middlebury College and the broader sports community remain united in mourning, honouring the life and achievements of Emily McNamara as they navigate this challenging time.