Hempstead, NY - The Hofstra University Department of Athletics mourns the passing of former football and wrestling standout Tony Garay, who passed away this past weekend at the age of 74. 

Garay played football under legendary Hofstra Coach Howdy Myers from 1968 to 1970, and served as a team captain during his final season. A defensive tackle, Garay was selected by the Los Angeles Rams in the eighth round of the 1971 NFL Draft. He wrestled under another Hofstra legend in Bob Getchell.

Garay's connection to Hofstra continued long after his graduation. He and his wife, Marsha, who was also a two-sport athlete at Hofstra (softball and tennis), have been longtime supporters of the Hofstra Athletics Pride Club. In addition, two of their children – Daniel and Francesca – were Hofstra student-athletes. Daniel was a member of the football and wrestling teams, while Francesca was a member of the volleyball team. Their other son, Antonio, was an All-American wrestler at Boston College and was a NFL player for nearly a decade. Garay's nephew, Carlos, also played football and wrestled at Hofstra.

Hofstra athletics extends its condolences to Tony's family and friends.