The University of Colorado is mourning the loss of a student-athlete.

Julia Sarcona, a senior member of the CU women’s lacrosse team, died Saturday after her car left the road and struck a tree while driving on Colorado Highway 119 just west of Boulder, the school announced Monday. She was 21 years old.

Sarcona, a Northport, N.Y., native, lettered all three years at CU as vital practice squad player the majority of her career with the Buffaloes. She was on track to graduate in spring with a degree in public relations.

“On behalf of all of us in the CU Athletic Department we are heartbroken at the loss of Julia,” CU athletic director Rick George said. “Our hearts, thoughts and prayers go out to the Sarcona family, Julia’s friends and teammates. This is a very difficult loss for the Buff family and we are extremely saddened. Please keep Julia’s family in your thoughts and prayers.”

Sarcona appeared in 11 games over three seasons and scored two goals as a sophomore in 2016. She served as an active volunteer participant in community outreach efforts; including the CU Lacrosse Camp, City Lax Denver, Field Day for Boulder Valley Youth Lacrosse, the 2015 CU Lacrosse Halloween party at Children’s Hospital Colorado and CU’s 2014 food drive.

“The loss of Julia Sarcona is heartbreaking for our team and lacrosse family,” CU head coach Ann Elliott said. “Our thoughts and all our love is with her family as I cannot even imagine what they are going through. Her family has become our family over the years and we will look to support them in every way we can. Related Articles CU Buffs announce 5-year partnership with online sportsbook PointsBet

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“Julia had an incredible heart, she was funny and caring, she could always make you laugh and smile, she was an integral part of this program and has impacted each of our lives in so many ways. There really aren’t words and there is no answer for how one deals with such a loss. As a team, we will go one step at a time as we try to find our way together and make sure everyone has all the resources and support they need. Again, our love and thoughts go out to Julia’s family. Her impact on our program and lives will never be forgotten.”

Sarcona is survived by her parents, Joseph and Alessandra, her brother, Matthew, and her sister, Nina.

The 2018 CU women’s lacrosse season begins Feb. 9 against Michigan in Jacksonville, Fla.

“We are deeply saddened to learn of the death of University of Colorado Boulder student Julia Sarcona,” said Andrea Zelinko, interim dean of students. “We have been in touch with Julia’s family, and we will continue to outreach to those affected to offer campus support resources.”