TEMPLE, Texas — The City of Temple will honor a beloved community figure this March, longtime soccer coach and official Peter den Harder.
At 10 a.m. on Saturday, March 23, the City will honor den Harder with a dedication ceremony for Peter den Harder field at the Crossroads Soccer Complex, located at 6600 Research Loop in Temple, Texas.
Den Harder became a cherished member of the Temple community when he arrived in 1980, said the City of Temple. Den Harder "always had a passion for the game of soccer", said the City, first playing for the Temple Hotspurs.
Den Harder coached teams with numerous local soccer clubs for over 35 years, said the City, including Ralph Wilson Youth Club, Centex Storm Soccer Club, Temple Unified FC and Liverpool FC America.
In addition to his coaching, the City said den Harder also officiated 42 high school games.
"[Den Harder] showed immense love for his family, and his deep passion for soccer was evident throughout his many years of active involvement as a player, coach and referee," said the City of Temple in an announcement about the dedication.
According to the City, den Harder died on July 30, 2020, at the age of 64, after leaving an "enduring mark on our soccer community".
“Peter's love of the game led him to be a player, coach, Director of Training, mentor, referee and board member,” said General Manager of Centex Soccer Ron Davis. “His sense of fair play is legendary.
Members of the community are invited to the dedication to honor den Harder's legacy.
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