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U.S. Women’s Water Polo Star Maddie Musselman’s Husband Dies at 31

Tragic news has struck the water polo community as Pat Woepse, the husband of U.S. women’s water polo star Maddie Musselman, has passed away at the young age of 31 after a battle with a rare form of lung cancer. Woepse, a former water polo player at UCLA, was diagnosed with NUT carcinoma in September 2023, but he remained determined to see his wife compete in her third Olympics, which she did over the summer in Paris.

Musselman, 26, shared the heartbreaking news on Instagram, expressing her deep sorrow over the loss of her beloved husband. She described Woepse as the light of her life, her first love, and the best husband she could have ever asked for. Despite battling the rare cancer for over a year, Woepse never complained and fought courageously until the end.

The couple, who met at a friend’s wedding in 2022 and got married the following year, faced the devastating reality that Woepse had just months to live. Musselman recalled the challenges of balancing her time between caring for her ailing husband and training with her team, but Woepse’s unwavering support never faltered.

Woepse, a key player in UCLA’s back-to-back national title wins in 2014 and 2015, was surrounded by his teammates in his final days as they reflected on their shared memories. Despite the heartbreak of his passing, Musselman and Team USA will continue to honor his legacy as they pursue their athletic endeavors.

The water polo community mourns the loss of a talented player, a devoted husband, and a true inspiration to all who knew him. Pat Woepse’s memory will forever live on in the hearts of those who loved and admired him.

Who was Pat Woepse?

Pat Woepse was a former water polo player at UCLA who tragically passed away at the age of 31 from a rare form of lung cancer known as NUT carcinoma. Despite his diagnosis in September 2023, Woepse was determined to support his wife, U.S. women’s water polo star Maddie Musselman, in her pursuit of competing in her third Olympics.

How did Maddie Musselman describe her husband’s passing?

In an emotional Instagram post, the 26-year-old Musselman expressed her heartbreak over the loss of her husband, stating that Pat had gained his “angel wings” surrounded by family. She described him as the light of her life, her first love, and the best husband she could have ever asked for. Musselman shared a photo of the two walking hand-in-hand on a beach, highlighting the deep love and bond they shared.

How did Pat Woepse handle his battle with cancer?

Musselman shared that her husband never complained throughout his year-long battle with the rare cancer. She praised his courage and determination, noting that he fought every day to be with his loved ones as long as he could. Despite the challenges he faced, Woepse remained strong and resilient in his fight against the disease.

How did the couple’s relationship begin?

Musselman and Woepse, both water polo players at UCLA, met at a friend’s wedding in 2022. They quickly fell in love and were married the following year. Upon learning of Woepse’s prognosis, they decided to tie the knot as soon as possible, surrounded by loved ones who came together to make their wedding a reality within just four days. The couple’s love story was marked by support, strength, and unwavering commitment to each other.

How did Pat Woepse support Maddie Musselman’s athletic career?

Despite his illness, Woepse continued to be a pillar of support for Musselman as she pursued her water polo career. There were times when she felt torn between being with her ailing husband and practicing with her team, but Woepse encouraged her to prioritize her training and competitions. His unwavering support and love never wavered, showcasing the strength of their relationship.

What were the couple’s achievements in water polo?

Musselman and Team USA achieved Olympic gold in both 2020 and 2016, showcasing their talent and dedication to the sport. Despite facing challenges, including Woepse’s illness, the couple continued to inspire others with their resilience and determination. The team may have lost in the bronze medal game in Paris, but their legacy and impact on the sport endure.

Sources: Instagram Post, NBC Los Angeles