The Milligan University community and the cycling world are mourning the tragic loss of Brayden Rodgers, a sophomore at Milligan University who died Wednesday morning following a serious crash involving members of the university’s cycling team in Hampton, Tennessee.
According to information released following the incident, Rodgers was among several Milligan cyclists involved in a collision with a vehicle on U.S. Highway 19E near Simerly Creek Road. The devastating crash claimed the lives of Rodgers and fellow Milligan sophomore Haylan Engdahl, while several other cyclists were seriously injured.
The tragedy has sent shock waves through the university and cycling communities, leaving classmates, teammates, coaches, and friends struggling with the loss of two young lives taken far too soon.
Those who knew Brayden remembered him as someone whose intelligence, enthusiasm, and passion for cycling made a lasting impression on the people around him. Fellow riders described him as a valued member of the cycling community whose presence brought energy and friendship to those who shared the sport with him.
Beyond the competition and training, Brayden’s teammates remember the relationships and experiences they built together. His dedication, commitment, and love for cycling became an important part of the legacy he leaves behind.
For the Milligan community, this loss represents not only the passing of a talented athlete but also the loss of a student, teammate, and friend who had much more life ahead of him.
As the university and cycling community come together to grieve, support is being offered to Brayden’s family, friends, teammates, and all those affected by this heartbreaking tragedy.
Brayden Rodgers will be deeply missed and forever remembered by his family, the Milligan University community, his teammates, and everyone who had the privilege of knowing him.