"This is a devastating loss" - Alabama saddened by death of "incredible" staffer Mary Maruggi

The athletics department employee of the University of Alabama, Mary Maruggi, died at her house on Monday. The University of Alabama Sport Management Program posted on social media to announce the news as Alabama paid tribute to their "beloved friend."

“We are so sad about the passing of our dear teammate, Mary Maruggi. This is a devastating loss to Mary's many friends and family, UA student athletes, the SM program, and the UA community at large.”

“She was a fearless advocate for student success and never missed an opportunity to pay it forward. May her memory and legacy provide some comfort during this challenging time.”

Crimson Tide's offensive guard, Tyler Booker, re-shared the post on his social media and added a caption thanking her for all her efforts.

“Thank you so much for everything Mary,” Booker wrote on his Instagram story.

Tyler Booker’s Instagram story

The University of Alabama's athletics director, Greg Byrne, talked about the impact Maruggi had while mourning her loss.

"Mary was an incredible colleague who had a great impact on many of us within the department, but especially with the student-athletes she served. Mary built exceptional relationships with her student-athletes, staff and coaches throughout her career. We will all miss her more than words can express," Byrne said. [via Crimson Tide's website].

Maruggi was hired by Alabama in March 2020 as an academic advisor. She mentored football and golf players in Alabama.

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Mary Maruggi’s career at Alabama

Maruggi had a decade-long career in collegiate athletics. She began her career at Kent State University in January 2015, earning a master's degree in higher education in 2016 while serving as a graduate assistant in academic services.

In 2017, she took her first full-time position at the University of Minnesota, where she supported various athletics teams for three years. In March 2020, Maruggi joined the University of Alabama as an academic advisor. She worked with the men's golf and football programs to help student-athletes achieve their academic goals.

She also played a crucial role in training new staff members, tutors, and graduate assistants in academic support and athletics administration.