ST. GEORGE — Utah Tech University and Trailblazer Athletics are mourning the loss of football student-athlete Brian Oney, who died at his family’s home in St. George this past Sunday morning.
“Our hearts are heavy with the devastating loss of Brian,” Ken Beazer, Utah Tech director of intercollegiate athletics, said in a news release. “Our thoughts and prayers are with his family, friends, teammates and all who were touched by his remarkable life.”
Oney, 21, joined the Utah Tech football program in 2020, though he did not appear in any games over his three seasons as a Trailblazer. The 6-foot-7 offensive lineman from Simi Valley, Calif., battled through injuries throughout his collegiate career before ultimately retiring after the 2022 season.
However, Oney, who held a 3.45 GPA as an exercise science major, planned to remain part of the Trailblazer athletics department as a student intern during the 2023-24 academic year.
“Though Brian was never able to pad up with our team, he was an excellent teammate, he excelled in the classroom and he was a pleasure to be around,” Utah Tech Head Football Coach Paul Peterson said. “Our hearts are broken and we extend our sincere condolences to the entire Oney family. Brian will be missed and he will forever be a part of our Trailblazer family.”
Oney was a 2020 graduate of Chaminade College Preparatory High School in West Hills, Calif., though he played high school football at Simi Valley. He was a two-year starter at SVHS, where he earned first-team all-Mission League and second-team all-area honors.
“Our entire university joins the Oney family in grieving the loss of Brian,” said Utah Tech University President Dr. Richard B. Williams. “Brian was an outstanding student and a valued member of our Trailblazer football program. We send our sincere condolences to the Oney family, and to all who knew and loved Brian. He will be deeply missed.”
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