Gilbert, Arizona (AZ Family) — The Mesquite High School community is mourning the loss of junior varsity boys basketball coach Mike Taylor, who was killed in a traffic accident on Interstate 10 early Monday morning in Goodyear.
He was driving home from a basketball tournament in California.
Teachers and players say this is a huge loss for the school.
Everyone called him “Coach Mike,” and everyone knew him, whether they played basketball or not.
On Monday morning, before classes began, teachers were informed that the coach had been killed in an accident. The men's basketball players were taken to the gymnasium and informed of the collision.
“It's devastation, utter devastation,” English teacher Robin Chavarria said. “It really is an integral part of our community.”
Chavarria has known Coach Mike for several years and they were friends. She said he was a big part of the Arizona basketball community. Her son, Porter, played for Coach Mike last season.
“Honestly, it still doesn't feel real,” Porter said. “Really caring and willing to do anything for others. Always honestly putting others before himself. Super selfless. He was the best.”
Coach Mike was chosen to lead the freshman team after the head coach resigned midway through the year.
It is said that he was always there to cheer and support students in other sports. Porter said Coach Mike has helped him develop into a better player and person.
“We said everything is for him right now. The rest of the season, the rest of the season, everything is for him,” Porter said. “Honestly, I don't know where I would be without him. He's the best. I love him.”
Sean Lynch, Mesquite High School principal and boys varsity head coach, released the following statement:
“Coach Mike was a good man. He gave of himself to others and had a positive impact on the players, parents and staff. He will be greatly missed.”
Gilbert Public Schools also released the following statement:
“Coach Mike has been a part of the coaching staff at Mesquite High School since 2021 and has been absolutely wonderful with the kids. The support we have received for our students and faculty has been great. Our students, families, and staff would like to thank Coach Mike. He will be greatly missed. His impact on the individual and the entire Mesquite High School basketball program was positive and significant. We extend our condolences to his family and friends.”
A three-vehicle crash occurred on Interstate 10 near Dysart Road around 2:12 a.m. Monday, according to DPS. The accident began when the driver of a sedan rear-ended a Jeep SUV on the highway. Coach Mike reportedly got out of his car and was standing in the driveway when another car hit him. He was taken to a hospital, where he succumbed to his injuries.
The family and school will host an event to honor Coach Mike on Saturday afternoon. They are asking people to go out, enjoy food and support his friends and family.
breakfast
Mesquite High School cafeteria
500 S. McQueen Road Gilbert, Arizona 85233
2:30pm
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