Mayville State QB Matt Donovan Shows Signs of Waking

MAYVILLE, ND (trfnews.i234.me) – Mayville State University quarterback Matt Donovan is showing encouraging signs during his recovery from a traumatic brain injury.

His father, Terry Donovan, shared a new update on Saturday, October 17, 2026.

According to the Facebook update, Matt kept his eyes open for extended periods while interacting with family members.

Although he is not fully awake, his family reported moments that offered renewed hope.

Quarterback Keeps Eyes Open During Family Visits

Terry Donovan described two extended periods when his son appeared more responsive.

The first occurred earlier Saturday, when Terry spent approximately 40 minutes speaking with Matt.

During that time, Matt kept his eyes open as his father talked to him.

Later, Terry joined Tina and AJ for another visit lasting approximately 45 minutes.

Matt again kept his eyes open while family members spoke to him.

According to his father, Matt appeared able to look into their eyes when asked.

Terry emphasized that his son was not yet fully awake.

Still, the family viewed the interactions as meaningful moments in his ongoing recovery.

Family Notices Possible Reactions to Photos

During one visit, Terry showed Matt several family photographs.

One picture featured Terry’s father, whom he identified while showing the image.

Terry reported noticing what appeared to be a slight grin on Matt’s face.

However, he could not confirm whether Matt recognized the person in the photograph.

Matt also appeared to show a similar reaction while looking at Tina.

The family described these moments with cautious optimism.

They have not claimed the reactions establish full awareness or recognition.

Football Community Continues Offering Support

The Donovan family also welcomed several visitors during Saturday’s activities.

Byron football coach Ben Halder visited and brought a book titled “Pounding the Stone.”

Although Halder coaches a rival football program, his visit reflected support beyond the field.

The family read the book’s first chapter aloud to Matt.

Friends Aaron and Paige Richards and Tomi Swanson also visited, according to Terry’s update.

The visits provided additional support as the family continued spending time at Matt’s bedside.

Recovery Follows Serious September Football Injury

Donovan suffered a traumatic brain injury during Mayville State’s September 19 game against Simpson University.

He was flown to Fargo for emergency medical treatment following the injury.

Doctors performed emergency brain surgery and placed him in a medically induced coma.

His recovery has continued through weeks of hospital care and close family involvement.

The latest update describes increased periods of eye-opening and possible responses during conversations.

However, the family’s observations do not establish how quickly or fully he might recover.

Rehabilitation Transfer Planned for October 19

Terry Donovan said the family remained on schedule for a planned rehabilitation transfer Monday, October 19.

The destination is Madonna Rehabilitation Hospitals in Lincoln, Nebraska.

The facility provides specialized rehabilitation services, including treatment for people recovering from brain injuries.

The planned transfer represents another stage in Matt’s care, rather than confirmation of a completed recovery.

Terry said the family believes Matt is beginning to awaken.

He also requested continued prayers for his son’s growing awareness, strength, and courage.

The family has not confirmed that Matt is fully conscious or able to communicate consistently.

For now, the latest update offers cautious encouragement as Matt prepares for further rehabilitation.

I’m Adrian Cole reporting for TRF News.