Remembering Tiger Bech: A Tribute to a Fallen Football Star
Insights from His High School Coach Amidst New Year’s Tragedy

Tiger Bech tragically lost his life in a horrific incident on New Year’s Day. The high school football coach who mentored this exceptional player is now sharing heartfelt memories and reflections about the life of this talented athlete. Tiger was not just any football player; he was a beacon of hope and inspiration for many, and his untimely passing has left a significant void in the hearts of those who knew him.

“When we lose someone, it always hurts deeply. To lose someone like Tiger, especially in such a tragic manner during a holiday celebration, is profoundly sorrowful,” said Marty Cannon, who transitioned from assistant football coach to principal at St. Thomas More Catholic High School in Louisiana. He expressed his feelings during an interview on the TMZ Sports TV show, which airs nightly on FS1. This loss resonates not only with Tiger’s family but also with the entire community that cherished him.

“Our thoughts and prayers unequivocally extend to the Bech family. They are a tightly-knit group of individuals who share a profound bond, and their love for St. Thomas More is undeniable. Today, many are grieving this significant loss,” Cannon added, emphasizing the community’s collective sorrow and support for the Bech family during this difficult time.

At just 28 years old, Tiger Bech, who showcased his talent on the football field at Princeton University after graduating from STM, was celebrating the New Year on Bourbon Street in New Orleans. This joyous occasion turned tragic when the perpetrator, Shamsud-Din Jabbar, drove into a crowd, leading to the unfortunate deaths of at least 14 individuals and injuring many others. This shocking act of violence has shaken the community and brought to light the fragility of life.

While many will remember Tiger primarily as a talented football player, former Coach Cannon emphasized that there was much more to him than the game itself. “Tiger was an extraordinary individual. He transcended the role of a mere athlete; he possessed a remarkable depth of character,” he shared, highlighting the multifaceted personality of Bech that endeared him to so many.

<p"That guy was incredible. Rarely did we discuss football with Tiger; instead, he was more interested in talking about family, his aspirations, and the things he was learning. He was truly a deep, personable person that we all cherished," Cannon reflected, painting a picture of a young man who was as passionate about life as he was about his sport.

If there is a silver lining amidst this tragedy, Coach Marty shared that he had the chance to reconnect with Tiger just two days before Christmas. “I am incredibly grateful that I had the opportunity to see Tiger one last time. It is something I will always appreciate,” he said, acknowledging the importance of cherishing moments with loved ones, especially in times of loss.