DENVER — Kendrick Castillo will always be remembered as the hero killed in the STEM School shooting earlier this year, but what many of those who know him best want him to also be remembered for his love of robotics and the impact he had in that community.
On Saturday, they honored that with the Kendrick Castillo Memorial Tournament for robotics.
“Honestly, it was kind of hard,” STEM Robotics team member Lisa Annandale said.
Hard because of the young man whose name is and face are visible everywhere, including the tournament itself.
“He just always found a way to brighten my day, and it would mean so much,” Annandale said.
“This is incredible. Kendrick always enjoyed these events. To see everyone come in, have fun with their robots is really his spirit,” team mentor Jack Rumple added.
Castillo was killed at school trying to save his classmates in Highlands Ranch. Saturday, they continued his legacy of love of robotics.
“We’ll continue his legacy by keeping the team alive and keep it building,” team member Noah Graber said.
“This was something he loved and something he wanted to do, and he wanted other people to experience and do as well,” Annandale said.
Everyone in the community showed their support, not just his team.
“It’s really amazing. It’s one of those things that we never wanted to get here, but everyone is supporting it, and we know Kendrick and everything he did for the team is just going to continue for year after year,” Rumple added.
And a massive show of support for his parents who came out to see what their son loved to do and the people carrying out his passion.