dan sturges msu hockey what happened

Dan Sturges, a former Michigan State hockey player and the program’s Director of Hockey Operations, died unexpectedly in January 2026 at age 40.

What happened to Dan Sturges?

• Michigan State University announced that Dan Sturges passed away unexpectedly on a Monday morning in mid-January 2026.

• An athletic department spokesperson said the school was notified of his death by his family, but no further details about the cause were released publicly.

• MSU described the news as “devastating” and noted that the department’s focus was on supporting players and staff as they grieved.

In other words, from what is publicly available right now, the university has confirmed his sudden passing, but has not shared a cause of death.

His role and legacy at MSU

• Sturges played for Michigan State from 2005–2009 and was part of the 2007 national championship team.

• He returned to MSU hockey in 2019 as Director of Hockey Operations, working closely with the team until his death.

• Coach Adam Nightingale said Sturges was a beloved member of the hockey family whose passion and dedication “will leave a lasting legacy.”

• MSU planned on-ice tributes such as jersey patches with his initials and a moment of silence before games following his passing.

How the hockey community is responding

• MSU athletics leadership emphasized that he cared deeply about student-athletes and built genuine relationships across the department.

• Coverage from local and national outlets highlights the emotional impact on the Spartan hockey community and notes that grief resources are being offered to players and staff.

• Fans and alumni have been sharing memories and condolences in news comments and online forums, reflecting how well-regarded he was around the program.

If you’re looking for more specific details (like exact cause of death), those have not been made public as of the latest reporting, and most official statements focus on honoring his life and contributions rather than circumstances.