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Tragic Loss: U.S. Women’s Water Polo Star Maddie Musselman Loses Husband to Rare Cancer

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

In a poignant Instagram post, Musselman shared the devastating news of her husband’s passing, describing him as the light of her life and her person. She expressed her deep love for him and admiration for his unwavering courage throughout his battle with cancer. Woepse, a California native, was a key player in UCLA’s national title wins in 2014 and 2015, and his former teammates visited him in the hospital to show their support.

The love story between Musselman and Woepse began at a friend’s wedding in 2022, leading to a whirlwind romance and marriage the following year. Despite knowing that his time was limited, the couple made the most of their time together, with Woepse’s support never faltering, even as Musselman continued to pursue her Olympic dreams.

Despite the heartbreaking loss, Musselman and Team USA have continued to honor Woepse’s memory through their dedication to their sport. The team, which previously won Olympic gold in 2020 and 2016, fell short of a medal in Paris but undoubtedly carried Woepse’s spirit with them throughout the competition.

As the water polo community mourns the loss of a beloved member, Musselman’s strength and resilience serve as a testament to the power of love and the enduring bond between partners. Woepse’s legacy will undoubtedly live on in the hearts of all who knew 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, he was determined to see his wife, U.S. women’s water polo star Maddie Musselman, compete in her third Olympics, which she did in Paris over the summer.

What was the relationship between Pat Woepse and Maddie Musselman?

Pat Woepse and Maddie Musselman were married and shared a deep and loving relationship. They met at a friend’s wedding in 2022, got married the following year, and unfortunately, soon after learned of Woepse’s terminal diagnosis of NUT carcinoma. Musselman described him as the light of her life, her first love, and the best husband she could have ever asked for.

How did Pat Woepse battle his rare cancer?

Pat Woepse battled his rare cancer with incredible strength and resilience. Despite the challenges he faced, he never complained and fought every day to be with his loved ones as long as he could. His courage and determination were evident from the very beginning of his diagnosis.

What was the impact of Pat Woepse’s passing on the water polo community?

Woepse, who was a key player in the UCLA water polo team that won back-to-back national titles in 2014 and 2015, had a significant impact on the water polo community. His teammates visited him in the hospital, showing their support and solidarity during his battle with cancer. His memory and legacy continue to live on among those who knew him.

How did Maddie Musselman balance her time between her husband and her water polo career?

Maddie Musselman faced the challenge of balancing her time between being with her ailing husband and her commitment to her water polo career. Despite the difficulties, her husband’s unwavering support encouraged her to continue pursuing her passion for the sport. Musselman’s dedication and resilience shone through in her ability to navigate these conflicting priorities.

What were the highlights of Maddie Musselman’s water polo career?

Maddie Musselman, alongside Team USA, achieved Olympic gold in both 2020 and 2016. Her success in the sport and her contributions to the team’s victories showcased her talent and dedication to water polo. While the team fell short of a medal in the bronze medal game in Paris, Musselman’s accomplishments on the world stage are a testament to her skill and tenacity.

Sources: Instagram Post, NBCLA