By Sagar V. Mankar The esports community is mourning the tragic loss of Millie ‘Duckz’ Ward, a talented young player who made significant contributions to the UK Rocket League scene.
At just 23 years old, Duckz’s passing has left a profound impact on those who knew her and admired her achievements.
The sad news was first shared by one of her former coaches, Euan ‘Tadpole’ Ingram, on X (formerly Twitter) on September 15, 2024. He wrote:
“Today I’ve been informed that Millie ‘Duckz’ Ward has passed away. Her family would like to inform friends and the community of her passing. I’m shocked and incredibly saddened by this horrific news, and my condolences go to her close friends and family at this time.”
As of now, the cause of her death remains unknown.
Who was Millie ‘Duckz’ Ward?
Millie ‘Duckz’ Ward was a prominent figure in the UK Rocket League community, known for both her exceptional skills and positive presence within esports. Over the years, she represented various teams and was a member of the women’s roster for the UK esports organization Resolve in 2022 and 2023.
Despite her young age, Duckz achieved a great deal during her career. Some of her most notable accomplishments include:
- Winning the WPC Women’s Rocket League EU January Invitational with Williams Resolve in 2023.
- Triumphing in the women’s Rocket League Showmatch at the first Olympic Esports Week.
- Claiming the top spot at Insomnia 69.
- Securing victories at Raidiant, Guild’s Boost Championship, Ally Women’s Opens, and the Women’s Car Ball Championships (WCBC).
Esports Community Reactions
The news of Duckz’s untimely passing has deeply saddened the esports community. Many prominent figures and organisations have expressed their condolences and shared memories of the young player:
Resolve, the organization she represented, paid tribute to her memory and extended condolences to her family and friends.
Similarly, UK esports organization Endpoint called her “a worthy opponent and a pillar of the community.”
Slumpii, a fellow UK women’s Rocket League player and Duckz’s ex-partner, shared heartfelt memories of their time together, both as competitors and friends.
“I’m devastated.
For those of you who don’t know, Millie was my ex. She was kind, funny, thoughtful, a bloody great rocket league player and above all else, a good friend. We won tournaments & shared great memories together and thats something I won’t ever forget. She was very much a pillar of the women’s rocket league community and will be sorely missed.
Please check up on your friends, family & those you love.”
Rest in peace Millie 💔
Another teammate, Vix, remembered Duckz’s kindness and humor during their bootcamp experiences.
“Rest in peace, Duckz. You were nothing but kind to me when I met you in bootcamp. Although shy at first, you were lovely and funny. You won’t be forgotten.”
SapphiRe, an executive producer at Raidiant and former Counter-Strike player, highlighted Duckz’s positive influence and hard work in the women’s esports community.
“This is unimaginably devastating. Duckz was a pillar in the women’s community, always positive, always hard working and respected by so many. My sincere condolences to her family and friends.”
Rest in peace, Millie ‘Duckz’ Ward.