Hayden Ellias was the vibrant middle child of Mary and Greg Ellias. The family moved from New York to Virginia, seeking a wholesome environment to raise Hayden and his siblings, who were just 9, 10, and 11 when tragedy struck.
Hayden was an energetic, determined, and compassionate child who stood out for his kindness and inclusiveness. His mother, Mary, recalls, "He had a plan every day—things he wanted to accomplish. Hayden would never have been one to just sit on his phone; he was always out doing something." One of Mary’s favorite memories is of Hayden’s determination to learn rollerblading. After finding a pair at a yard sale, Hayden spent the entire day teaching himself, falling countless times, but never giving up.
Hayden’s caring nature left a deep impression on his peers. His mother later discovered letters from classmates who shared stories of his inclusivity, like the little boy Hayden had befriended at school, ensuring he was always part of the group. "We knew Hayden had that attitude, but we didn’t realize how much he impacted others," Mary reflected. Even at a young age, Hayden believed everyone deserved to be included, a value he showed daily.
An active child, Hayden loved sports and excelled in everything he tried. His parents introduced him to soccer, which he embraced wholeheartedly despite initial nerves. He quickly became a natural, and his “never-give-up” attitude made him a standout on the field.
Tragically, Hayden’s life was cut short when an unsecured soccer goal fell on him, causing fatal injuries. Despite doctors’ efforts, there was nothing more they could do. Reflecting on a conversation from weeks prior, Mary remembered Hayden telling her he wanted to be a donor after learning about organ and tissue donation. Even at 10 years old, he had grasped the significance of giving to others. Thanks to his selflessness, Hayden was able to help others through tissue and cornea donation.
The community rallied around the Ellias family in their grief, providing them with a strong support network. Hayden’s story made an impact across the nation, reaching Washington, D.C., national news, and multiple local news stations across the U.S. Local soccer communities also showed their solidarity for the family. Inspired by Hayden’s passing, Mary founded “Hayden’s Goal,” a nonprofit to promote soccer goal safety. Through workshops, videos, and grants for safe soccer equipment, Hayden’s Goal raised awareness of the dangers of unsecured soccer goals. Mary and Greg’s efforts helped create safety standards, including the “Push, Don’t Pull” method for goal inspection.
After 15 years, Mary dissolved the organization, feeling it had fulfilled its purpose. The remaining funds were donated to Hayden’s first soccer club, continuing his legacy of supporting safe play. Though legislation promoting soccer goal safety didn’t pass, Mary’s advocacy helped raise national awareness.
Hayden’s life and legacy will be honored in the 2025 Rose Parade on the One Legacy Donate Life float, a tribute to his spirit and the gift of life he gave through donation. "This is the icing on the cake for him," Mary shared. "We’re so grateful for the chance to celebrate Hayden and keep his story alive."
The float will be featured during the Rose Bowl Parade on January 1, 2025. To learn more about the OneLegacy Donate Life Rose Parade float, please visit: https://onelegacyfloat.org/si/.