By David Robert | Published: June 26, 2026 | Source: Arsenal Volleyball Club Facebook post
GOODRICH, MICHIGAN — Madelyn “Maddi” Thams, a beloved young athlete and member of Arsenal Volleyball Club’s 12 Regional team, has passed away at the age of 10 following injuries sustained in a tragic accident. Family members and community leaders confirmed her passing after several days of intensive medical care, sharing the heartbreaking news with friends and supporters this week.
According to a GoFundMe campaign organized by Lauren Schultz on behalf of the family, Maddi was involved in a tragic accident on June 21, 2026. Despite the tireless efforts of doctors and nurses who fought to save her life, she died after spending several days in the hospital.
Life and Legacy
Although only 10 years old, Maddi had already made a lasting impression on everyone who knew her. Friends, coaches, teachers, and family members remember her as a joyful child whose kindness, compassion, and infectious smile brightened every room she entered.
A resident of the Goodrich community, Maddi enjoyed playing volleyball, spending time with dogs, watching sunsets, and baking with loved ones. Those closest to her say she approached life with generosity beyond her years and possessed an extraordinary ability to make others feel welcome and valued.
Her impact extended beyond sports. Arsenal Volleyball Club described Maddi as a cherished member of its 12 Regional team, with the organization asking its extended volleyball family to keep her loved ones in their thoughts and prayers during this unimaginable loss.
“Dear Arsenal Family, it is with deep sadness that I share that one of our 12 Regional Players, Madelyn Thams, passed away unexpectedly. Please keep her family in your thoughts and prayers,” the club shared in an official statement.
In one final act reflecting her caring nature, Maddi became an organ donor, allowing her legacy of helping others to continue by giving hope and life to multiple recipients. Her family described this selfless gift as a reflection of the compassion that defined her life.
She is survived by her devoted parents, her 12-year-old brother, grandparents, extended family members, teammates, classmates, and countless friends whose lives were enriched by her presence.
The family has also expressed gratitude for the overwhelming support received from the community. Contributions made through the fundraising campaign will help offset unexpected medical expenses and funeral costs while supporting the family as they begin the difficult journey of healing.
Funeral and Memorial Information
According to the family’s official announcement, visitation and celebration of life services have been scheduled as follows:
- Location: Allen Funeral Home, Davison, Michigan
- Visitation: Friday, June 26, 2026, from 11:00 a.m.–2:00 p.m. and 4:00 p.m.–7:00 p.m.
- Celebration of Life: St. Mark Lutheran Church, Flint, Michigan
- Date & Time: Saturday, June 27, 2026, at 11:00 a.m.
- Protocol: Family and friends are encouraged to wear leopard print, yellow, or other bright colors to celebrate Maddi’s vibrant spirit. Those wishing to support the family may also contribute to the memorial fundraiser established to assist with medical bills and funeral expenses.
As Goodrich mourns the loss of a remarkable young girl, Maddi Thams is remembered not only for her love of volleyball but for the compassion, warmth, and joy she shared so freely. Her legacy will continue to live on through the lives she touched, the teammates who will always remember her, and the lives forever changed through her gift of organ donation.
Editorial Note: This report has been compiled using verified statements released by Arsenal Volleyball Club and information provided by the Thams family through their official GoFundMe fundraiser.