Palm Beach mourn “absolute legend”, soccer coach

The Palm Beach sports community have been left heartbroken following the sudden passing of a football coach on Friday.

Gary Cumber from the Palm Beach Soccer Club sadly passed on September 30.

The Palm Beach community are in heartbreak after the sudden passing of Palm Beach Soccer Club coach Gary Cumber on Friday.

The Club wrote to Facebook to announce Mr Cumber’s passing, describing him as a “passionate” and “amazing” coach of the under 10s side.

“It is with great sadness that we wish to inform you that we have lost one of our amazing juniors coaches.

“Gary Cumber our under 10s Red coach passed away suddenly on Friday,” the club wrote.

“A very passionate man and a great mentor to our kids who had high hopes for his team next season.

“Gary we will miss you dearly.

“From everyone from the Palm Beach Soccer Club family our condolences go out to Gary’s family and friends.”

Mr Cumber leaves behind his wife Bridgette and their three young children.

Friends of Mr Cumber took to Facebook to share their heartbreak.

Leah Sinni was a neighbour of Mr Cumber’s and said he was a”hands on active dad.”

“My next door neighbour, father of three young kids and husband and local soccer coach at the sharks (he) was such a hands on active dad ... ” Ms Sinni said.

“Our street is so quiet without him.”

Crystal Ruttley wrote: “Absolutely legend! (sic) The team will miss your spirit and enthusiasm. And we will all miss your smiling happy face. Rest easy.”

Rebecca Plant said she would miss the “little things” about Mr Cumber.

“We love you Gary and we’ll miss you … and those little things about you, like that booming voice, wearing thongs as activewear, too small bucket hats and those red shorts,” Ms Plant said.