Tragedy has struck the college football world.
Danny Duray, a 20-year-old kicker for Southeast Missouri State University, has died, leaving teammates, coaches and classmates reeling. The university confirmed his death on Wednesday, Feb. 11. No cause of death has been publicly released.
Duray, who suited up for the SEMO Redhawks, was remembered not just for his leg on the field — but for his larger-than-life personality off of it.
“Today is one of the hardest days I’ve experienced as a coach,” head football coach Tom Matukewicz said in a statement. “We lost a young man who mattered deeply to our program and to so many. Our team is hurting. Danny’s family is hurting. We are going to wrap our arms around them the best we can and walk through this pain together.”
Brady Barke, SEMO’s vice president for intercollegiate athletics, also shared his grief.
“This is a heartbreaking loss for our department, our campus community, and especially for those who knew and cared for him closely,” Barke said. “Our thoughts and prayers are with the Duray family.”
Duray, a native of Arlington Heights, Illinois, grew up playing football and soccer at Hersey High School before continuing his athletic career at Southeast Missouri State. After redshirting his freshman year in 2024, he spent the 2025 season with the College of DuPage Chaparrals, where he made a major impact.
According to his College of DuPage bio, Duray was named NJCAA Special Teams Player of the Week twice during the 2025 season and scored 62 points as the team’s kicker. He had planned to return to SEMO for the 2026 season while pursuing a degree in business administration.
Friends say what truly set him apart wasn’t just his stats — it was his spirit.
Redhawks wide receiver Anthony Westervelt described Duray as “just so full of life” and “always the funniest guy in the room.”
“Whenever he was around there was never a dull moment,” Westervelt said. “I’ll always remember him as the life of the party. He always made sure to be there for people and encourage others. He was loved by so many people and we all are going to miss him very much.”
Duray’s hobbies included fishing, soccer and working out. He was also a devoted Chicago Bears fan and the son of Sam and Sally Duray.
Authorities confirmed that Cape Girardeau Police responded to a medical assist call at Houck Stadium around 1:50 a.m. on Feb. 11. However, officials have not confirmed whether the call was directly connected to Duray’s passing. The Southeast Missouri Department of Public Safety has not released additional details.
As the campus community mourns, one thing is clear: a young life full of promise was cut short, and the shockwaves are being felt far beyond the football field.
“Our team is hurting,” Coach Matukewicz said.
And so is everyone who knew Danny Duray.
He is now playing on the lords team.