Another day and yet another young athlete has lost their life.
University of Louisiana-Lafayette water skier Micky Geller has died at age 18. The Canadian was in his freshman year at the college with his whole life ahead of him when his life would come to an unexpected end.
The school announced on Wednesday that Micky had died suddenly and unexpectedly on May 6.
“With his full-throttle approach to life, Micky experienced more in his 18 years than many ever will,” his family and friends wrote in Geller’s obituary. “However, he was just cracking the surface of the possibilities that lay ahead.”
Geller became the sixth-ranked junior water skier in the world for the U21 jump, specializing in the Slalom, Trick & Jump events. He helped the university win a national championship last year.
Water Ski Canada said in a statement: “It is with heavy hearts and great sadness that we share with all of you the news that Micky Geller, from Ontario, has died suddenly.
“Micky was a valued member of the University of Louisiana at Lafayette Water Ski Team, and the Ontario skiing community.
“He represented Water Ski Canada on many occasions including the U17 IWWF World Championships, the Jr. US Masters Water Ski Tournament, and the 2022 Pan American Championships.
“As skiers and all the members of our community begin to mourn this great loss, many will acknowledge his amazing work ethic, unending passion, humor, athleticism, and charisma.
“The Geller family would like to create an award in Micky’s memory and WSWC will work with them on a suitable way to remember Micky’s wonderful contribution to our sport and everyone in it.”
Geller, from Carp, Ontario, began his watersports career at the age of four. He was later a member of Canada’s junior national water ski team, competing at the IWWF World Championships, the Jr. US Masters Water Ski Tournament, and the Pan American Championships in 2022.
On a full-ride waterskiing scholarship, he was studying physiology and marketing at ULL.
The University of Louisiana-Lafayette flew flags at half mast on Thursday to honor Geller. A funeral service was held for him on Thursday in Ottawa as well.
As of May 19, no cause of death has been released. Micky is survived by his sister Chloe, and parents Bobbiann and Mitch.
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