Redmond coach remembers 9-year-old player killed in crash

The community of Redmond is remembering Drake Hahn, 9, who died in a head-on crash on Highway 26 east of Government Camp while returning from a basketball game in Portland last Sunday.

R.C. Huerta was Drake’s coach on the Redmond Rebels and spoke to NewsChannel 21 on Friday.

Huerta said he remembers Drake as a great player and his son’s best friend.

He said some of Drake’s young teammates had a tough time dealing with the news this week and practice didn’t resume until Wednesday.

He said the boy helped his team by putting points on the board during the tournament game on Sunday.

A school response team of grief counselors was at Sage Elementary in Redmond this week, as many students and teachers were grieving.

Grief counselor John Kailey told NewsChannel 21 that parents can comfort their kids during this difficult time.

He said it’s all about being able to listen to your child and letting the child guide the conversation.

Kailey said when a tragedy or death happens to a loved one, kids will begin to develop sad feelings, and parents are encouraged to ask their kids if they’re feeling OK.

He said it’s vital to let your children ask questions about events like this.

Parents should answer honestly and concisely without volunteering extra details. Most importantly, the best thing parents can do for their children is just spend time with them.

Huerta coaches boys basketball at Redmond High School. His players will be wearing T-shirts with the words “Drake Strong” on the back during the Dec. 19 Panther home game.

He said the community has showed support for Drake’s family and the teammates.

A moment of silence will take place during the basketball game, and the community is encouraged to attend.

Family members and friends have set up a GoFundMe page for Drake’s family: https://www.gofundme.com/in-memory-of-drake-hahn