David Magala Tucker GA Death and Obituary – On the morning of April 22, 2025, Clayton State University, located in Morrow, Georgia, was struck by the heartbreaking news of the untimely passing of David Magala, a standout goalkeeper for the university’s men’s soccer team. David, a beloved member of the Laker family, tragically died in a car accident near his home in Tucker, Georgia. His death has left an indelible mark on the campus community, particularly within the athletics department, where he was an admired student-athlete and leader.
David Magala’s journey at Clayton State University was one of excellence, both on and off the field. Over the course of three seasons with the Lakers, Magala developed a reputation as a reliable and steady presence between the posts. The Tucker, Georgia native made an impressive 24 appearances for the men’s soccer team, recording 72 saves and notching five shutouts. His athleticism, quick reflexes, and exceptional decision-making were key factors in the team’s success during his tenure, culminating in a career record of 12-4-5 and a goals-against average of just 1.3 per game.
Magala’s contributions to the team went far beyond his statistics. Known for his calm demeanor and composed play under pressure, he was an anchor for the Lakers’ defense and a source of inspiration to his teammates. His leadership was especially evident in high-stakes moments, where his poise and clutch performances helped propel the team to greater heights.
Among his many achievements, David played a crucial role in helping the Lakers reach back-to-back NCAA Tournament appearances, an accomplishment that had eluded the program for two decades. In both 2023 and 2024, he was instrumental in guiding his team through tense penalty shootouts, making pivotal saves to secure victory. His most memorable moments came when he stopped penalty kicks in crucial matches—first against Lenoir Rhyne in 2023 and then against Converse in 2024. These iconic performances solidified his place as one of the premier goalkeepers in the Peach Belt Conference (PBC) and a legend in Clayton State’s soccer history.
David’s impact, however, extended far beyond the soccer field. A Criminal Justice major, he excelled academically and was named to the Peach Belt Conference Presidential Honor Roll, a testament to his commitment to his studies. His drive to succeed extended into his service to his country as a Sergeant in the Georgia Army National Guard. David’s discipline, leadership, and sense of duty made him an exemplary figure among his peers. He was known for his humility, work ethic, and the quiet strength he displayed both on and off the field.
Before his collegiate career, David was a standout player at Tucker High School, where he led his team to an impressive 9-0-1 record during his senior year, despite the COVID-19 pandemic halting the season. He also played a key role in leading Tucker to the quarterfinals of the Georgia State Championships in both his sophomore and junior years, laying the foundation for his successful career in college soccer.
David’s untimely passing is a tremendous loss, not only for Clayton State University but also for the broader soccer and military communities. He was a young man of exceptional character, who lived his life with purpose, resilience, and integrity. His legacy will continue to live on through the memories he left behind and the many lives he touched.
In light of this tragedy, Clayton State University has extended its deepest condolences to David’s family, friends, teammates, and all who knew him. The university also encourages anyone in need of support to access its counseling services, which are available to all students and staff during this difficult time.
David Magala will be deeply missed, but his legacy as a student-athlete, soldier, and friend will never be forgotten.
