It is with profound sadness that we share the heartbreaking news of the passing of Sydney Martin of El Cajon, California. A talented and vibrant young woman, Sydney tragically died by suicide, leaving behind a community of family, friends, teammates, and mentors who are devastated by her loss.
She was a cherished member of the San Diego State University cheerleading team and a former athlete with CheerForce, where her leadership, spirit, and passion left a lasting impact.
Sydney’s presence on and off the mat was unforgettable. A natural leader, she brought energy, joy, and unwavering dedication to every practice, performance, and game.
Her coaches and teammates remember her not only for her athletic excellence but for her sense of humor, her kindness, and her ability to uplift those around her.
As one former coach recalled, “She was beyond talented, funny, and always stood as a team leader. I was blessed to have coached her during her first year at CheerForce and continued to watch her grow as an all-around athlete.”
Sydney’s love for cheer extended beyond the sport itself. She was known for being a loyal teammate and a beloved figure in the cheer community. Even after her time at CheerForce, she remained closely connected with her coaches and fellow athletes, inspiring many with her continued growth and commitment at SDSU.
Her family’s presence at every game, cheering her on from the sidelines, became a familiar and comforting sight. The Martin family’s support of Sydney and the broader cheer community never went unnoticed.
Beyond her athleticism, Sydney was a compassionate, intelligent, and driven young woman with a promising future. She brought light into the lives of those who knew her and had a unique ability to make people feel seen and supported. Her loss is felt deeply not only by the SDSU and CheerForce communities but also by everyone whose life she touched.
Mental health struggles can be silent and overwhelming. Sydney’s passing is a devastating reminder that even those who seem strong and joyful on the outside may be facing internal battles. It is more important than ever to check in on one another, to speak openly about mental health, and to ensure that those in pain know they are never alone.
In the wake of this tragedy, tributes to Sydney have poured in from across the state and beyond. Friends, teammates, and coaches are remembering her smile, her drive, and her ability to bring people together. The cheer world has lost not only a gifted athlete but a truly beautiful soul.
As the community comes together to mourn Sydney’s passing, there is a shared commitment to honoring her memory by supporting others who may be struggling. Her legacy will live on through the love she gave, the joy she spread, and the lives she touched.
Our deepest condolences go out to the Martin family, the SDSU cheerleading team, the CheerForce community, and everyone grieving this immeasurable loss. May Sydney’s memory be a blessing and may her story continue to encourage compassion, connection, and understanding.
If you or someone you know is struggling with suicidal thoughts, please reach out for help. You are not alone. Call or text 988 for free, confidential support, available 24/7.
