Weather for the Following Location: South Carolina on Map

James Madison University Softball Season Canceled After Tragic Loss

Tribute setup at James Madison University softball field

News Summary

James Madison University has canceled its softball season following the heartbreaking death of Lauren Bernett, a standout player recently named Player of the Week. Coach Loren LaPorte and the team expressed their sorrow and the difficult nature of the decision, emphasizing their desire to honor Bernett’s legacy and focus on healing. The JMU community is mourning while remembering Bernett’s impact on the team and the broader softball community. This decision signifies a prioritization of mental health and academics during this challenging time.

Harrisonburg, Virginia – James Madison University (JMU) has canceled the remainder of their softball season following the tragic death of student-athlete Lauren Bernett. The announcement comes as the athletic community mourns the loss of the 20-year-old player, who was recently recognized as the Colonial Athletic Association Player of the Week shortly before her passing.

The decision to end the season was made by head coach Loren LaPorte and the JMU softball team, who described the choice as extremely difficult and expressed their heavy hearts in the wake of such a significant loss. The team has emphasized their gratitude for the outpouring of support from fans and the broader softball community during this challenging time.

In honoring Bernett’s memory, the team plans to focus on healing and prioritizing their academic commitments. The players will use this time not only to remember their teammate but to come together as they process the impact of her absence.

Recent Highlights of the Season

About Lauren Bernett

Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic

HERE Resources

JMU Softball Cancels Season in Honor of Lauren Bernett
Coastal Carolina University Celebrates Graduation of Chauncey

Additional Resources

STAFF HERE MYRTLE BEACH
Author: STAFF HERE MYRTLE BEACH

The HERE Myrtle Beach Staff Writers are a collaborative team of journalists, editors, and local contributors passionate about delivering accurate, timely information to the Myrtle Beach community. As part of the HEREcity.com Network, which powers over 100 U.S. city sites including HEREcolumbia.com, our staff draws on collective experience in South Carolina journalism to cover everything from business sales and real estate developments to dining deals and community initiatives. Our Expertise and Background Local Roots in Myrtle Beach Our team includes lifelong Myrtle Beach residents and SC natives with deep knowledge of the area’s history, economy, and culture. We’ve covered key events like the recent developments along the Grand Strand, Myrtle Beach’s tourism and hospitality industry, and growth in local education sectors (e.g., Coastal Carolina University programs). Collective Experience With over 50 combined years in journalism, our staff has backgrounds in print, digital media, and community reporting. We prioritize fact-based stories, drawing from sources like the Myrtle Beach Area Chamber of Commerce, city government records, and on-the-ground interviews. Commitment to Quality Every article is a group effort, involving research, editing, and verification to ensure reliability. We adhere to journalistic standards, citing credible sources and updating content as new details emerge.

ADD MORE INFORMATION OR CONTRIBUTE TO OUR ARTICLE CLICK HERE!
Advertising Opportunity:

Stay Connected

More Updates

Interior view of Net Par Shallotte showcasing high-tech golf simulators and social areas.

New Indoor Golf Facility Opens in Shallotte

Shallotte, December 3, 2025 News Summary Net Par Shallotte, a new indoor golf facility, is set to open in early 2024, bringing state-of-the-art golfing technology and

Would You Like To Add Your Business?

Sign Up Now and get your local business listed!