James Madison softball cancels remainder of season after death of Lauren Bernett

The sports world was stunned to learn last week that James Madison star sophomore catcher Lauren Bernett had unexpectedly died at the age of 20. 

Per a statement shared on the school's official website, The Dukes have canceled the remainder of their softball season. Five of their games were previously scrapped following the news of Bernett's death and upcoming contests against Virginia and Elon have now also been called off. James Madison ends its campaign at 21-21 overall and 10-5 in the Colonial Athletic Association conference. 

"This was an extremely difficult decision and one that was not made lightly," James Madison coach Loren LaPorte said for the release. "We are so grateful for the support of our fans all season and for the love from the softball community during the past week. We will use this time to continue healing and to honor Lauren's memory while finishing the academic semester strong. Most importantly, we're thinking about our graduating seniors whose careers have come to an abrupt conclusion. We will make sure that they are honored for the commitment and dedication they have made as student-athletes at James Madison University."

Per Andrea Adelson of ESPN, the Office of the Chief Medical Examiner for the Western District of Virginia classified Bernett's death as a suicide. She was named CAA Player of the Week on April 25, the same day she died.