A memorial service for head boys soccer coach Joey Rodriguez will be held at 1 p.m. Saturday, Oct. 23, 2021, at the Arlington Center for Visual and Performing Arts.

Rodriguez passed away Sunday, Oct. 17.

He was 44.

He is survived by his wife and three children.

“Such sadness on earth, but rejoicing in heaven,” his wife Lena Rodriguez posted via Twitter on Oct. 17. “Joey, you are and will always be the strongest man I know.”

Rodriguez was rushed to the emergency room on Aug. 29 after testing positive for COVID-19. Several years ago he was diagnosed with an immune system disorder which made it harder for his body to fight infections. He was vaccinated, Lena told WFAA.

“He was a great coach,” junior Marc Enriquez said. “I never got to thank him for giving me an opportunity and believing in me as a freshman to play varsity, but also for all the great advice and confidence he put in me. He made me a better player and person. Just wish I could tell him thank you for everything he did for me and for everyone.”

In lieu of flowers, the family is asking for donations for a memorial scholarship fund in Rodriguez’s honor. More information is coming soon.

Keller Central coach Brandon Voss and Lena started a GoFundMe account to help the family cover any funeral and medical expenses.

Under Rodriguez, the Texans made the playoffs last season, making it 14 straight years. The team advanced to the UIL state tournament in 2015 and 2017.

Larissa Johnson

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