A Celebration of Life - Sarah Le

[Marc P.]

The news of Sarah's passing hit me like a punch in the stomach. I first worked with her at the championship last year, scoring the pyramid goals on Einstein. We didn't talk much, but there was a strong feeling of mutual respect, working the biggest stage in FIRST. It wasn't until this year when we were selected as championship head referees that I really got to know her. Her energy and enthusiasm were both boundless and contagious. As we worked out the details of calls and scenarios for the championship, her passion and desire to do right by the teams made it clear that she really "gets it", and embodies everything FIRST stands for. Despite all of the difficulties referees faced this season, she came in to the championship each morning with a smile and a twinkle in her eye, ready to make good things happen.

I know her legacy will live on in all of the lives that she touched, including my own. My deepest sympathies to all of FIRST in Texas and Colorado, especially to Joe and those closest to her. If there is anything I can do to help in any way, please let me know!

[Justin Montois]

Unbelievably sad news. My thoughts go out to her family and friends. Just shocked right now

[P.J.]

This is terrible to hear, I'm completely shocked right now. I had the extreme pleasure of working under Sarah on Curie this year, and she made it a wonderful experience. Her dedication and passion in making sure that we were all comfortable and confidant throughout the event was inspiring. I was truly looking forward to seeing her at champs again next year. My thoughts and prayers go out to all of Sarah's family and friends. FIRST lost one of its greats today.

[Jessica Boucher]

I actually met Sarah first through her boyfriend Joe - whom NI sent to CT the first year they introduced CSAs. We talked about bringing more Texas teams to CT as he was impressed by the level of competition. He is a great person too, and through him Sarah and I became internet friends.

We saw each other at Championships over the years. This past year I was doing my typical "circle through the fields" thing and Sarah popped up suddenly with a present. No one brings me presents, I was floored. It was a very girly gift, and certainly something I love, and totally unexpected. I think she also bought girl scout cookies for the refs on the other fields, but I may be mistaken. I definitely remember gs cookies for the refs because I may have stolen a few

I got to assign her for CMP as a head referee. Watching her find out she was head reffing over the internet warmed my heart, especially after the exhausting season she had. This was a tough game, and she worked a lot of events, but she handled it with exasperated grace. The last thing I said to her in person was teasing her for being so animated and focused on Einstein. She beamed.

In working on districts I have come to know more of the Texas leadership, and I know that Sarah was a great asset to them. My heart cries for her, her family, and her friends, and she is in my thoughts. I wear her gifts as a reminder of her joy and to give joy to others everyday, as you never know what the future will bring.

Thank you Sarah, for touching my life. I only hope I can do the same.