Southeast Missouri State University football player Danny Duray passed away

Southeast Missouri State University is mourning the loss of football student-athlete Danny Duray, who passed away early Wednesday morning, February 11, 2026.

“It is with a heavy heart that I share the news that one of our student-athletes passed away,” said Vice President for Intercollegiate Athletics Brady Barke. “This is a heartbreaking loss for our department, our campus community, and especially for those who knew and cared for him closely. Our thoughts and prayers are with the Duray family during this difficult time.”

A native of Arlington Heights, Illinois, Duray was a Business Administration major who rejoined the SEMO football program after redshirting as a true freshman in 2024. During the 2025 season, he competed at College of DuPage, where he excelled as the Chaparrals’ kicker. Duray converted 32 of 33 extra-point attempts, made 10 of 13 field goals, and totaled 62 points on the season.

Duray was a graduate of Hersey High School, where he was a multi-sport athlete, participating in both football and soccer.

“Today is one of the hardest days I’ve experienced as a coach,” said Head Football Coach Tom Matukewicz. “We lost a young man who mattered deeply to our program and to so many people. 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.”

The SEMO athletics community continues to rally around the Duray family, honoring Danny’s life, legacy, and the impact he made on those around him.