The DePaul University community is mourning the sudden and heartbreaking loss of one of its own. On the morning of Sunday, June 2, 2025, Chase Stegall, a 20-year-old sophomore and member of the men’s soccer team, was found unresponsive in his dorm room at Sanctuary Hall on the school’s Lincoln Park campus. Emergency services were called, but sadly, he was pronounced dead at the scene.
At this time, the cause of death has not been made public. His sudden passing has sent shockwaves through the campus, leaving students, teammates, and faculty struggling to process the news.
A Young Man Full of Promise
Chase wasn’t just an athlete—he was a hardworking student, a loyal friend, and someone who brought energy and joy to every room he entered. Originally from Atlanta, Georgia, Chase joined DePaul in 2023 and quickly became a standout on the soccer field. After sitting out most of his first season due to injury, he made a strong return in 2024, playing in 16 of 17 games, scoring a goal, and making his presence known as a dynamic midfielder.
For those who watched him play, his passion was undeniable. His teammates admired his drive, while his coaches praised his work ethic and team-first attitude. Off the field, he was known for his humility and good nature—qualities that earned him admiration far beyond the soccer pitch.
Carrying a Family Legacy
Chase was also the son of Milt Stegall, a legendary wide receiver who played in both the NFL and the CFL. Milt’s career with the Winnipeg Blue Bombers cemented his place in Canadian football history. While Chase was carving his own path in soccer, many saw echoes of his father’s determination and discipline in the way he played and lived.
Despite his family’s legacy, Chase never relied on name recognition—he earned every bit of praise through effort, kindness, and consistency.
More Than a Teammate
The tributes pouring in from teammates and friends reflect just how deeply Chase touched those around him. Gianna Sanchez, a fellow student-athlete, remembered him as “the happiest guy on campus,” always greeting people with a smile or a joke. Myles Marshall, a former teammate, shared that Chase “never had a bad day—at least that’s how he made you feel. He made things better just by being there.”
University President Rob Manuel said in a statement that Chase was “known for his warmth, his strength of character, and his ability to lift up those around him.” Athletic Director DeWayne Peevy and Head Coach Mark Plotkin echoed the sentiment, calling him “a beloved teammate, a friend to many, and a cherished part of our community.”
A Story of Resilience
Earlier this year, Chase opened up in an essay titled “Living My Dream,” where he shared his journey of recovering from a seizure he experienced during his freshman year. The medical scare forced him to miss most of the 2023 season, but instead of giving up, he fought his way back—physically and mentally—to continue playing the sport he loved.
In the essay, he wrote, “The DePaul community has meant everything to me. They helped me remember that I’m living my dream.” It was a deeply personal message that showed just how much he appreciated his time at the university and how committed he was to making the most of it.
Remembering Chase
Chase is survived by his parents, Milt and Darlene Stegall, and his younger brother, Collin, who also shares a love for soccer. The family has received an outpouring of love and support from across the sports world, with messages from the CFL, DePaul alumni, and even international athletes.
Plans for a memorial service are being arranged, and the university has promised to honor Chase’s memory in a meaningful way. In the meantime, grief counselors have been made available for students and staff who need support during this difficult time.
Chase Stegall’s life, though tragically short, left a powerful mark. He was a dreamer, a fighter, and a light to everyone who knew him. His legacy will live on in the hearts of his teammates, his family, and the entire DePaul community.
