Minnesota high school star tragically dies at just 17 years old

Minnesota high school hockey star Mikayla McCarvel has passed away her family and her team announced yesterday on social media.

Shakopee girls hockey has lost not only a teammate but someone apart of our family, our best friend. Mikayla was the most smiley, happy, intelligent woman we knew. Each day she came into the rink with a smile and positive attitude to take on the day. To say we will miss her is a great understatement. The love and support has not gone unnoticed, and we continue to feel and appreciate it all. Saying our prayers for the family and friends of sweet Mikayla. The memory and impact she left on each person she knew will always be remembered. To know you is to love you. We love you Mik, can’t wait to see you again angel 🤍❤️

- Shakopee Sabers

The 17 year old died from brain injuries suffered in a two vehicle collision in her hometown of Shakopee, Minnesota on December 26th, 2023. McCarvel was traveling with three other teenagers when they were struck head on by another vehicle. Police declined to release the identities of any of the drivers or occupants of either vehicle. It's unclear whether there were any other deaths or serious injuries as a result of the horrific accident.

MccCarvel was in her second season with the Shakopee Sabers and was a well loved and respected teammate. 

"God has much bigger plans for our beautiful angel. Selfless above all, she was able to grant several prayers of other families who were waiting ever so patiently on a donor registry," wrote her father, Dan McCarvel, in a social media post. "When I helped her fill out her driver's license form, checking that box wasn't even a question for her and we are humbled to honor her wishes."

"Mikayla’s life was one filled with endless adventure. It was hard to keep up with all the things she wanted to do next," wrote Dan McCarvel. "She was never one to shy away from something new for fear of failure or embarrassment. To best honor her – go try something new…find that new adventure."

Her teammates and her opponents continue to honor her each and every day.

The Shakopee Girls U12 team have also decided to honor McCarvel's spirit by wearing her trademark 'hockey braids' for the rest of the season:

RIP, Mikayla. Gone, but never forgotten.