Kayla Saager-Beckley Obituary, Death – Former Division 1 Soccer Player, Coach and College Scout Dies at 33
Kayla Saager-Beckley, a former Division 1 soccer player, coach and college recruiting scout, died on September 9, 2026, in Tulsa, Oklahoma, at the age of 33. Her passing came only three months after she married John Beckley in Sayville, New York, on June 4, 2026. Her cause of death has not been publicly disclosed.
A native of East Islip, New York, Kayla devoted much of her life to soccer. She began playing the sport at just three years old and developed into an all-state player at East Islip High School before continuing her career at the collegiate level.
Her Division 1 journey included stops at NC State, West Virginia and Binghamton University. During her time at Binghamton, she established herself as a standout player and team captain. In 2017, she was named America East Striker of the Year after recording 11 goals and seven assists. Her performance also earned recognition from Top Drawer Soccer, where she was ranked among the nation’s leading players.
Kayla graduated from Binghamton University in 2019 with a degree in sociology. She continued pursuing soccer professionally after college, playing overseas for FC Slovacko Zeny in the Czech Republic. A career-ending injury eventually brought her playing days to a close and opened the door to a new chapter in coaching and player development.
In 2020, Kayla joined Troy University as a part-time assistant coach before becoming an assistant coach in 2022. Her responsibilities included recruiting, player development, travel coordination, game preparation and film analysis. During her time at Troy, she also earned a master’s degree in health and physical education/fitness.
Kayla later took her experience into college recruiting, working as a scout with the National Scouting Report. In that role, she helped student-athletes and their families understand the college recruiting process and pursue opportunities to continue their athletic careers.
Her personal life also entered a new chapter in 2026 when she married John Beckley. The couple first met while working in college athletics, according to their wedding website, and eventually moved to Tulsa as John continued his career as a Division I football coach.
Kayla’s sudden loss is being felt throughout the soccer and college athletics communities. Former teammates, athletes, coaches, colleagues, friends and families she worked with are now remembering someone whose life remained closely connected to the sport she loved.
Beyond her accomplishments as a player, Kayla’s influence continued through coaching and recruiting. The athletes she developed and the families she guided through the college recruiting process will remain part of the legacy she leaves behind.
Her death has brought profound sadness to those who knew her, particularly so soon after her marriage. Kayla Saager-Beckley will be remembered for her dedication to soccer, her commitment to developing young athletes and the many opportunities she helped others pursue.