Student-Athlete Lacrosse Player Dies From Choking In Off-Campus Hotdog Eating Contest

A 20-year-old lacrosse player from Tufts University reportedly died last weekend after she participated in a competitive hotdog eating contest.

The student-athlete was identified as Madelyn Nicpon, who reportedly choked during the contest that was part of a “Play for Pink" event for breast cancer awareness, WCVB reported.

According to the Journal News, Nicpon fell unconscious after choking during the contest at a private property in the town of Somerville, Massachusetts.

First responders performed extensive life-saving procedures before she was transported to the Mt. Auburn Hospital in Cambridge.

Nicpon was later transferred to the Massachusetts General in Boston, where she died on Sunday, October 17.

According to USA Today, about 3,000 students, faculty, and staffers attended a vigil on Sunday night to honor Nicpon who was nicknamed "Scooter" on her team.

“We are beyond heartbroken to share the news of the passing of junior Madie Nicpon," read an Instagram post from the school’s Instagram page.

“Scooter was a true friend and teammate. She truly valued her relationships with her teammates and coaches. Her reach was far beyond our team—she was a true connector on campus and touched every single person she met."

Nicpon played as a defender for Tufts University and was in her junior year. She was taking up biopsychology.

As a freshman, Nicpon played in one game and three as a sophomore. She participated in lacrosse, field hockey, and indoor track and field in high school.

Aside from being a member of the Tufts University lacrosse team, Nicpon was also president of Suffern High School's Class of 2019 and co-president of its National Honor Society.

A GoFundMe page was put up to help the family of Nicpon cover the funeral and medical expenses. As of Thursday, October 21, it has already raised over $160,000.