Chad

I received word today that a dear friend of mine passed away last week. Unless you were part of Laguna Hills High School in the late 90s, you may not know the man Chad Underkoffler, but he was a great friend and a great man.

I was working there at the time as an assistant varsity basketball coach and was the head coach for the Sophomore team when I met Chad. He was the basketball programs team manager and his love and passion then was being around the guys. They loved him right back and appreciated his work and his fun spirit.

I fondly remember sitting with him during games and his laughter and joking ways making light of some intense situations. He was funny, he was kind hearted, and he always had something positive to say. I lost contact with him after I left the school but learned that he got married and had a daughter. I was so very happy and proud for him. He deserved that kind of happiness. He deserved to be loved on after all the love he gave to others.

During practice he was like another coach, always telling guys what they need to work on, and would get guys the ball, or water, or whatever. He saw his role not as a lackey, which he was not, but more of a person who could help, and that he did. He ran the scoreboard during games for me, he filmed games, he did the book, he did it all. He did it all with a smile. He was just happy to be part of something at the school that was great.

I can remember bus trips with him and the guys talking and laughing with him, sharing stories, whatever, they respected him. I felt like I had a friend to talk to in Chad. Run ideas by him, and generally, just talk. He was a great listener, and a very insightful person.

My thoughts and prayers go out to his family. He was a great man, father, husband, and friend. The world is a sadder place without his laughter and smile and to brighten our days.

Rest in peace, Chad. Take care my friend. God bless you and your family.

Until next time
P