BANGOR, Maine — The Husson University athletics department lost a dear friend, colleague and supporter on Sunday with the passing of longtime public address announcer Reid Durost.

Arriving at Husson in 2005 as a student at the New England School of Communications, Durost began working within the athletics department as a public address announcer and disk jockey at various athletic events around campus. He had a gift on the microphone that could energize a crowd and bring life to a sporting event that won't ever be duplicated.

"Our players loved having Reid at our football games, his passion for Husson athletics and the energy in his voice were contagious," said head football coach Nat Clark. "We will remember all the great times at the Winkin and the office conversations with Reid, talking about life or New England sports. Every time we hear another 'Eagles first down!' we will smile and remember, Reid."

Durost was known for his ability to light up a room and bring a positive energy to his work, directly impacting the student-athlete experience at Husson. Spectators often knew when Reid was on the mic at an Eagles event because the atmosphere surrounding him and everyone there was different. 

"Reid was part of the Husson family, he was on the PA for the better part of 10 years," said head men's basketball coach Warren Caruso. "We called him 'The Voice'. He was gifted behind the mic and had a passion for it. Reid was loved and has a special place in our hearts. Sad to think he is no longer with us, he will be missed. Moving forward there won't be a time when starting lineups are announced at our games that I won't think of him with a smile. He had a loving soul and is a legend on the mic...that's how we will remember him".  

The longtime "Voice of the Eagles," Durost spent over a decade behind the mic for Husson, impacting the student athletes, staff, administration and spectators in a positive fashion that will truly be missed following his passing. 

"The loss of Reid Durost is tragic for everyone who knew him; I am deeply saddened for his family and friends," said former Husson athletic director Bob Reasso. "His loss will be felt by anyone who loves sports, Husson University, or Maine basketball. I have been involved in college athletics for over 40 years and have come into contact with incredible broadcasters on the local, state, and national levels, and I can honestly say none were better than Reid. He was the quintessential professional, who loved what he did and had a bigger-than-life persona. I know we will all miss him dearly."

"It's tough to imagine a Husson sporting event without 'The Voice,'" said head baseball coach Chris Morris. "Reid was a special person to everyone who crossed paths with him. From sport events, to weddings, Reid was someone that always greeted everyone with a contagious smile and always left with a good laugh! Special memories with a very special person that we will cherish for ever!"

Our thoughts and prayers are with the entire Durost family following Reid's tragic passing at the age of 37. In just a short time, Reid left a lasting impression and energy throughout the Husson athletics department that is still felt to this day.