The Broward College community is in deep mourning following the tragic death of Hadley Haile, the 13-year-old daughter of Gregory Adam Haile, the college’s president. Hadley passed away unexpectedly, leaving behind a family, school, and swimming community devastated by the loss of a bright and talented young girl.
Hadley was known not only as the daughter of a respected academic leader but as a rising swimmer with immense promise. Representing Swim Fort Lauderdale, she had already made her mark in the 2023–2024 USA Club season in the 11–12 age group, ranking 10th with a competitive score of 336.70. One of her standout performances included a personal best of 32.99 seconds in the 50-yard freestyle recorded on November 12, 2023.
Hadley’s drive, discipline, and grace in the pool made her a cherished teammate and competitor. Coaches and fellow swimmers remember her as a joyful presence with a relentless work ethic and a heartwarming smile that made early-morning practices a little brighter.
Her father, Gregory Haile, had often expressed how central his daughters were to his life. In a heartfelt Father’s Day message last year, he wrote, “Being a father to my daughters Hadley and Sloane is the greatest joy of my life.” His pride in Hadley was evident in both his words and actions, and the father-daughter bond they shared was a source of inspiration to many who knew the Haile family.
The loss has sent ripples of grief through Broward College, where faculty, staff, and students have offered condolences and support. Tributes have poured in from across the county, with many remembering Hadley not just as a talented athlete, but as a kind, curious, and radiant young soul.
“She was a star in every way,” one Swim Fort Lauderdale parent shared. “In the water, she was strong and focused. Out of the water, she was sweet and full of light. This is a heartbreaking loss for all of us.”
Funeral arrangements and memorial details have not yet been released, as the family takes time to grieve in private. The college is expected to host a remembrance ceremony in Hadley’s honor in the coming weeks.
As South Florida mourns, the legacy of Hadley Haile — a girl full of talent, love, and promise — will not be forgotten.
Rest in peace, Hadley. Your light continues to shine in the hearts you touched.