The women's college hockey community is mourning the loss of Emily McNamara, a beloved coach and mentor who passed away on Friday, September 11, at the age of 42. McNamara, an assistant coach for the Middlebury College women's hockey team, had been recovering from a serious car accident earlier this year.
Middlebury College President Ian Baucom announced the tragic news in a statement shared on the school's Instagram account on Sunday, September 13. “With deep sadness, we share the news that Assistant Women’s Ice Hockey Coach Emily McNamara ’07 died on Friday, September 11,” Baucom said. “As many of you know, Emily suffered serious injuries in a car accident last winter.”
The accident occurred on March 20, when McNamara lost control of her vehicle during an ice storm and collided with a tractor trailer traveling in the opposite direction near the Vermont campus. She sustained life-threatening injuries and was hospitalized for an extended period before being able to return home to continue her recovery.
Baucom expressed the institution's collective grief, saying, “We have been in touch with Emily’s family to share our sorrow and our full support during this difficult time. We have also spoken with members of our women’s hockey team and Athletics staff, who are understandably heartbroken by this news. Emily’s husband Dave, all her family, her colleagues, the students on the team, and everyone who knew her are deeply in our hearts.”
McNamara's impact extended far beyond the ice. Hamilton College, where she previously coached, released a heartfelt statement honoring her legacy. “She was the person who answered the phone at midnight for a player going through something hard,” the statement read. “She was the coach who remembered every player’s family, every player’s story, long after they graduated. She was, to two generations of Hamilton and Middlebury hockey players, someone who believed in them before they believed in themselves.”
The statement continued, “Hamilton Athletics extends its deepest condolences to Dave, to the McNamara family, and to everyone at Middlebury College who loved and worked alongside Coach Mac. Her impact on this program, on this conference, and on the sport of women’s hockey will not be forgotten.”
McNamara's dedication to her players was unparalleled. She was known for her ability to connect with athletes on a personal level, remembering every detail about their families and stories, and offering unwavering support. Her coaching career touched the lives of many young women, and her loss is felt deeply across the sport.
As the hockey community comes to terms with this devastating loss, tributes continue to pour in. Her former players and colleagues remember her as a source of inspiration and belief. The news of her passing has also resonated with the broader sports world, highlighting the fragility of life and the profound impact a coach can have on their team.
Our thoughts are with Emily's family, friends, and all those who had the privilege of knowing her. May she rest in peace.
