The sudden passing of former Cincinnati Bearcats defensive lineman Dominique Perry has left his parents, loved ones, and the community in deep mourning.
Perry, Born in 2001 in Germantown, Maryland, was a promising athlete and a dedicated mentor whose influence expanded beyond the football field.
Congrats to Dominique Perry! @domounchy @NWHSfootball —> @GoBearcatsFB pic.twitter.com/Ua63JY106x
— Andrew Mele (@mele_coach) February 6, 2020
Standing at 6 feet 3 inches tall, Perry played for the University of Cincinnati football program from 2020 to 2023.
During his college career, he appeared in 17 games, recorded 17 tackles, and played 67 snaps.
His most notable performance came during the 2022 season when he played in 11 games, tallying five tackles and recovering a fumble for a touchdown in a “scoop-and-score” play against Indiana.
This memorable moment showed his athleticism and dedication.
Before joining Cincinnati, Perry was a three-star prospect from Northwest High School near Washington, D.C., where he also attended DeMatha Catholic High School.
He was ranked as a Top-50 player in Maryland and earned several accolades during high school.
Perry graduated from the University of Cincinnati with a Bachelor of Arts degree.
Beyond football, he demonstrated a strong commitment to education and community service.
He interned with the University of Cincinnati Campus Police, was a paraeducator at Seneca Valley High School in Germantown, and coached the varsity defensive line at the same school.
His roles as an educator and coach showcased his passion for mentoring young people and giving back to his community.
Perry’s Impact As A Player, Teacher, Coach, And Mentor Will Inspire Those He Influenced Even After His Passing
Seneca Valley High School Principal Ricardo Hernandez expressed his sadness over Perry’s passing in a heartfelt letter to the school community.
“Dear Seneca Valley Community,
Via The Mocoshow
It is with a very heavy heart that I am writing to share some difficult news that has impacted our school community. Last night, we learned of the sudden death of Mr. Dominique Perry.
Mr. Perry has served our students as a paraeducator and as a football coach at Seneca Valley High School.
Mr.Perry joined our Seneca Valley community this school year and very quickly made an impact as educator, coach, and mentor to our students.
Our thoughts and prayers are with his family and friends at this time.
While the cause of Perry’s death has not been disclosed, tributes have flowed in from former teammates, friends, and students.
Malik Vann, a former teammate at Cincinnati, tweeted:
My brother forever. Love you family and rest easy now🕊️❤️ pic.twitter.com/i9U5PblrzE
— Malik Vann❕ (@MalikVann7) March 13, 2025
Another teammate, Evan Prater, tweeted,
“Show love! Be positive! Appreciate the people you have! Never be afraid to express yourself to others and make sure to always check up on your people… Love you brudda❤️”
Via Twitter
Another individual shared an emotional remembrance on social media,
“Dominique Perry This is another young man gone to soon!. I remember our talks the last period of the Day. I pray for your sweet Mom! Your students, players, staff, Friends, and FBall Family. May God Welcome You Into His Gates With Open Arms. Love & Light, Mrs. C.”
Via Facebook
Perry was known for his toughness on the field as a high school athlete at Northwest High School and DeMatha Catholic High School.
He once described himself as never giving up, a trait that defined him as both an athlete and a person who sought to uplift those around him.
Dominique Perry’s death is deeply felt by all who knew him.
His legacy as a football player, educator, coach, and mentor will continue to inspire those whose lives he touched.
