SELMA, Ala. — A tragic event has left the community of Selma mourning the loss of Caden Tellier, a talented high school football player who passed away after being critically injured during a game. A memorial service held on Monday remembered the 16-year-old Morgan Academy quarterback as a caring and dedicated athlete who touched many lives in his short time.
Tellier suffered a severe brain injury during a game against Southern Academy on Friday night. His death was confirmed by the Alabama Independent School Association, prompting an outpouring of grief and support from across the region. Students, parents, and teachers gathered in the school’s gym, dressed in the school’s maroon and gold colors, to honor his memory.
“There has been an outpouring of love that we have received from everyone in this room, people across the country,” said his father, Jamie Tellier. He shared that while Caden was an exceptional athlete, his greatest passion was sharing his faith in Jesus. “Caden is not going to want me to stop doing things,” he added, reassuring the community that his son’s spirit would continue to be felt.
Tellier, known for his caring nature, was described by his grandmother, Dale Dobbs, as someone who always made time for his younger cousins, including teaching one of them how to throw a baseball before his passing. “He would never accept money or allowance for the work he did for the family,” she mentioned, reflecting on his selflessness.
A makeshift memorial has formed outside Morgan Academy, where people have placed flowers, balloons, and heartfelt messages written in chalk, including “Miss U Buddy,” alongside his jersey number 17.
Concern over injuries in youth football, particularly those affecting the brain, has been highlighted by Caden’s tragic situation. His family announced on social media that he would continue to help others through organ donation. “Lives have been touched by the way he lived and now lives will be saved through his passing,” they stated.
In response to this devastating loss, Morgan Academy has canceled all sports activities for the coming week, including the upcoming football game against Wilcox Academy. Headmaster Bryan Oliver emphasized that the focus should not be solely on the injury but rather on the love shared for Caden, stating, “The story is that we loved Caden, and he loved the lord.”
