Prior to Lynnfield’s girls soccer game on Saturday, a special ceremony was held in honor of one of the town’s most beloved members: Kim Cochrane. She passed away in 2002, but her legacy isn’t going anywhere.
Kim was a Lynnfield soccer, and youth soccer, standout during her time as a Pioneer in the 90s – often remembered for her grit, spirit, and character both on and off the field. In 2002, the entire town mourned. Kim was influential in countless ways, and the area lost a special one far too soon.
On Saturday, Amie Geary – who grew up playing alongside Kim – touched on her legacy. Cochrane was, no doubt, a phenomenal talent once she laced up her cleats, but her impact off the field was just as meaningful according to Geary.
“Whether you were the team’s superstar or spent more time on the bench, Kim regarded you equally and made you feel part of the team,” Geary said. “She was a great teammate and friend, through and through.”
Geary also added that if you knew Kim, you were friends with Kim. Cochrane’s parents, Vicki and Coach Bob Cochrane, were the same way – volunteering over the years and leaving an big impact. From carpools to ice cream trips, the memories will never be erased.
“Bob Cochrane’s team was the team every player wanted to be on, and Kim was one of those players that everyone wanted to play with,” Geary said.
After Kim’s passing, her parents launched the Kimberly Lynn Cochrane Foundation to support young athletes. One of the company’s generous gifts was to the Lynnfield Youth Soccer Club, and it’s been held in trust for years until this year: the 20th anniversary of Kim’s passing.
Because of the gift, the Lynnfield Youth Soccer Club was able to purchase 340 training jackets and hundreds of special edition uniforms for the club’s travel and town players.
Courtney Nunley, one of Kim’s best friends, also spoke prior to the game. One of her biggest takeaways from knowing Kim was learning that everyone deserves a friend like her, and that she’ll be with you through your worst moments. Nunley believes it’s important for people to stand by their friends, just like Kim would.
“That’s how you embody #13,” Nunley said.
Lynnfield wound up winning Saturday’s game, 3-0, in Kim’s honor. Geary hopes that when the players walk onto the field sporting the number 13 on their sleeves this season, they carry out the same values that Kim blessed so many with.
Joey Barrett can be reached at [email protected]