PALM BEACH GARDENS, Fla. — Months after his death, a community continues to remember and honor the life of Ryan Rogers, whose body was found hours after he left for a bicycle ride.
The 14-year-old Palm Beach Gardens boy was honored Saturday morning with two benches at the soccer fields at District Park, where he dedicated plenty of his time for the sport he loved.
"We have placed them facing the soccer fields in the hope and the memory that when people do watch soccer, Ryan's life and legacy will continue on,” David Craven, director of the Palm Beach Gardens Youth Athletic Association, said. "They will think of Ryan not just now but forever."
The avid soccer fan, Rogers not only played at District Park, but he also refereed.
"He had that enthusiasm for the game," David Minshall, referee assigner for the league, said. "Whether he was refereeing or playing, he always seemed to have a good smile on his face."
The 14-year-old lost his life in November. Palm Beach Gardens police said Semmie Williams Jr. stabbed and killed Rogers after crossing paths with the teen as he rode his bike.
Police said it was a completely random act committed by a homeless drifter who had no ties to Palm Beach Gardens.
"Ryan was a wonderful young man," Craven said. "He was a part of our community, his family was a part of our community and he will not be forgotten. The soccer division will make sure of that."
The park has also set up a scholarship fund in the teen's honor.