The Liberty High School athletic department is mourning the sudden death of Rick Quintana, head coach of the boys tennis team and the girls golf team.

As of press time on Tuesday the cause of death was unknown. Quintana, 48, underwent knee surgery on Thursday and on Saturday afternoon passed unexpectedly.

"We're all still really shocked, stunned," said Liberty Athletic Director John Ambrose Monday. "We met with the teams this morning. The counselors were there; the kids know they have the support of our counselors and of the athletic department. We're just trying to offer them all the support they need."

Quintana, a Target employee, came to the boys tennis team, which is currently in season, two years ago when no one else stepped up for the job. With the future of the team in jeopardy, he happily took the helm.

"He was just a great guy," Ambrose said. "He stepped in when we really needed him. I think he just wanted to be there as a positive role model and to help out any way he could."

Quintana's players will always remember his cheerful personality. "He loved watching us play," said Josh Badal. "He was one of the happiest people I've ever met."

"He came to practice every day with a smile on his face," said Jarred Smith. "We're all still really stunned. We didn't think something like this could ever happen. This is so unfortunate."

The boys tennis season comes to an end on Monday with the Bay Valley Athletic League finals. Liberty won't be the only school to mourn Quintana's passing.

"The Freedom players will be wearing red wrist bands in his honor and we'll also have enough for the Liberty players and anyone else in the league that chooses to wear one," said Freedom High Athletic Director Steve Amaro, who coaches Quintana's youngest daughter, Angelina, on his varsity girls tennis team. "He was an incredible coach and leader. He definitely wanted the best for Liberty and its athletes and he wanted to make a positive change in young people's lives. We're all sad to see him go."

Quintana leaves behind his wife, Sue, his daughters, Marguerite and Angelina, and his granddaughter, Gentry.

Amaro said the Rosary was held Thursday at the Pittsburg Funeral Home, and the funeral service was planned for Friday at 10 a.m. at St. Anthony's in Oakley.

To comment on this story, visit www.brentwoodpress.com.