LITTLETON, Colo. — Community Honors Fallen Football Player

The Dakota Ridge High School community is coming together to remember Walker Moench, a former football player who tragically lost his life in a dirt bike accident over the weekend. Walker, who graduated last year, left behind a strong legacy that continues to inspire those around him.

Walker’s family shared that football was his true passion. He played throughout his high school years and often returned to mentor younger players. His dream was to fund the purchase and installation of bleachers at the football field, a goal that his community now wants to fulfill in his memory.

Eric Moench, Walker’s father, recalled the moment he learned of his son’s passing. “My yard in the back is still half mowed from when I left the mower when the phone call came in,” he said. The accident occurred on Saturday around 3 p.m. in Sterling, Colorado, while Walker was riding with his girlfriend, Amber Shaw.

Amber expressed her heartbreak, stating, “I’m pretty sure I went through my worst nightmare losing my best friend. He was my everything.” She was by his side when he took his final breath, providing comfort in a moment of unimaginable sadness.

Walker was known for his big heart and strong sense of community. Jeremiah Behrendsen, the Dakota Ridge High School football coach, described Walker as a servant leader who embodied the spirit of family. “The best thing about football for Walker was FAMILY. It stands for (F)orget (A)bout (M)e, (I) (L)ove (Y)ou,” he said. It was a principle Walker practiced both on and off the field.

After every game, it was a family tradition to take pictures together, and Eric has countless memories captured through those photos. “We always made a point to take a family picture after every game,” said Eric. “Through the losses, I always made sure to give him a hug and say I love him.”

As the Dakota Ridge Eagles prepare for their game at Jeffco Stadium this Friday at 7 p.m., they plan to honor Walker by wearing pink and blue, colors that symbolize the love and support from the entire community.

Friends and family have also set up a GoFundMe page to help bring Walker’s dream of bleachers to life, ensuring that his memory will continue to inspire future generations. Eric reflected on the loss, saying, “I wish we had more than 19 years with him, and that’s the thing that hurts the most.”