Chad Hult Death: A Mentor, Coach, and Guiding Light Whose Impact Will Never Be Forgotten

The passing of Chad Hult is a loss that has deeply shaken all who had the privilege of knowing him. His untimely departure leaves an indescribable void in the hearts of his family, friends, and all the young people whose lives he touched. To his family, I offer my deepest condolences. Words cannot truly capture the pain and sorrow of such a loss, but I hope they bring some measure of comfort during this incredibly difficult time.

Chad wasn’t just a coach—he was a guiding light for so many young athletes, a mentor, and, most importantly, a role model. To us, he was someone who made an impact that transcended the game of football. He was there for my family in ways that went far beyond his duties as a coach. He welcomed us into his world with open arms and an open heart.

I will never forget how he took my son, Dawson, under his wing as a sophomore in high school. At the time, Dawson was just beginning to explore the idea of becoming a quarterback. He’d always been a running back, a defensive guy, someone who was used to charging through the field with raw speed and instinct. But he had never thrown a football with precision or even attempted a proper spiral. The thought of him stepping into the role of quarterback seemed impossible.

But Chad believed in him. He saw something in Dawson that others might have missed. He didn’t just teach him how to throw a pass; Chad taught him how to think like a quarterback—how to read the game, how to make quick decisions under pressure, and most importantly, how to lead with both strength and humility.

There’s one memory that stands out above all others, a moment that will forever symbolize Chad’s incredible influence. During a game against Versailles, Dawson, now a quarterback under Chad’s mentorship, found himself on the run, scrambling to his right. With the defense closing in, Dawson launched a 67-yard pass to Trenton Dillon, who caught it for a touchdown. It was a play of sheer athleticism and precision, but more than that, it was a testament to the countless hours Chad had spent teaching Dawson the skills that made that moment possible. Without Chad, that incredible play would have never happened.

But Chad’s influence went far beyond the football field. He wasn’t just teaching X’s and O’s—he was teaching life. He taught Dawson how to handle responsibility, how to lead with integrity, and how to be respectful in all aspects of life. These lessons didn’t stop at football; they carried over into every facet of Dawson’s journey, and for that, we are eternally grateful.

Chad’s impact extended far beyond Dawson. He helped shape so many young men into better athletes, better teammates, and better people. He was more than just a coach—he was a father figure to many. He had the unique ability to connect with his players, to guide them not only on the field but through the challenges of growing up. He had a way of making every player feel seen, heard, and valued, no matter where they came from or where they were going.

Chad’s legacy is one that will never be forgotten. His lessons, his leadership, and his example will continue to live on in the lives of everyone he touched. From Dawson to Jasey, Kierstin, and countless others, Chad’s influence will be felt for generations to come. He shaped not just athletes, but young men and women with strong values, hearts full of compassion, and a sense of purpose that will carry them through life.

In his passing, we mourn, but we also celebrate the incredible life he lived—a life dedicated to making the world a better place, one person at a time. Chad Hult will always be remembered, and the impact he made will never fade.

Rest in peace, Chad. Thank you for everything you gave, for the lessons you imparted, and for the love you shared with all of us. You will forever be missed.