For many Brahmas, Dirk Keck was a mentor and constant source of support, encouraging them to be better athletes. The AYSO coach and regional commissioner passed away on Oct. 5. He was 52 years old.

As regional commissioner, Keck was the head of AYSO and directed everyday business for the region. DBHS English teacher Christy Moskovitz was among many who knew Keck through soccer.

“He helped my children grow as soccer players through his inspiring words and loving support,” Moskovitz said via email.

She recalled his passion for coaching and the kindness he showed toward his players.

“His love for soccer and his love for kids who played soccer were extraordinary,” Moskovitz said. “He was such an amazing man and his passing is simply devastating.”

She said Keck was a coach who deeply cared for his teams, supporting them all the way and through thick and thin.

“Whether it be witnessing an amazing goal, cheering a first-time goal or helping kids understand the game better after a win or loss, Dirk was the one who reached out and touched our lives,” she said.

Freshman Alyna Evans, who had been coached by Keck when she was younger, also felt constantly supported by the coach.

“He would come to every other one of my games and we would just talk about soccer, and he would tell me how I can improve and what I can do to be a better soccer player,” she said.

Evans said that if there’s one thing Keck taught her, it was to have confidence in performing at her full potential.

“He would always come support us and do everything he could to make our region better,” Evans said.

  Freshman Natalie Schaffer, who had known Keck since she was five years old, said his best quality was his approach-ability and communication skills.

“He could talk and build a relationship with all the kids,” Schaffer said via Instagram.

Schaffer expressed her gratitude for Keck and explained how the coach always knew how to cheer up her team during a tense game and was able to touch the hearts of many.

“He was well known in the Diamond Bar family and will most definitely always be missed,” she said.

Keck’s Celebration of Life was held in the school’s gymnasium on Oct. 13.