SALT LAKE CITY – Following the unexpected passing of his father in November, Utah Mammoth Captain Clayton Keller recently received support from fans as they gathered to write letters of love and encouragement during the game on Monday night.
On Tuesday, Keller expressed his appreciation towards the fanbase and shared how he continues to draw inspiration from his late father.
Utah Mammoth fans rally around Clayton Keller after loss of father
Roughly a week after Utah Mammoth Captain Clayton Keller unexpectedly lost his father, fans collectively showed their support as they wrote numerous letters for No. 9 during both intermissions on Monday night.
Similar to the ‘Letters to Ingram’ gathering that took place last season, several individuals drew inspiration from that event to coordinate letters of love and appreciation for their captain amidst a time of loss.
After seeing the news of Bryan Keller’s tragic passing, Utah Mammoth fan Krystal Dodge quickly sprang into action to generate support for Keller.
As someone who lost her stepfather several years ago, the story resonated with her, and she felt inspired to do something meaningful.
“I lost my stepdad, the only dad I ever had in my life three years ago,” Dodge said. “When I heard that his dad passed away, it really hit close to home for me.”
“These are professional athletes but underneath that, they’re people. Sometimes, it’s easy for some people to forget that they’re real people and go through hard times. I felt that it was important for the community to show out and show our support for the captain.”
Similar to ‘Letters To Ingram,’ Dodge coordinated letters for Keller at the Delta Center during both intermissions against the Los Angeles Kings.
For those who couldn’t attend, she also accepted letters online from around the country and even received one from Australia.
“People [have been] reaching out, telling me their own experiences that they’ve gone through with loss,” Dodge explained. “People from Australia for instance wanting to write a letter and people from all over the country wanting to write letters who couldn’t be here.”
“That’s what makes this community special. It’s the people.”
Once all the letters are gathered, Dodge hopes that Keller will feel supported and understand that Utah is always behind him.
Clayton Keller draws inspiration from late father, expresses gratitude towards fans
For the first time since his father, Bryan, unexpectedly passed away, Keller was able to light the lamp for his team on home ice.
Immediately after scoring and celebrating with his linemates, Keller then pointed up to the sky to honor his dad with the goal.
I know they lost but this is an absolute beauty from Keller.
Pinpoint accuracy. https://t.co/GMrgi2HDrc
— Cole Bagley (@BagleyKSLsports) December 9, 2025
“[He inspires me] Always. Every day. I wouldn’t be in this position without him and everything he taught me,” Keller explained.
“It’s nice to get one. I know him & my grandpa are up there watching every single game now. That makes me feel good.”
After the game, Keller was notified of the fan’s letters, which he then shared with his mom and brother.
“The support has been amazing from everyone, honestly.”
“I did see that [the letters]. Super cool moment. I sent it to my mom and brother. They were so excited. So cool for them to do that.”
According to the captain, the support from the Mammoth fanbase from day one has meant the world to not only himself, but every member of the team.
“They’ve been so good. Always supporting us and you know, we love playing at home in front of our fans. I appreciate them so much. The support means the world to all of us in this room, and we’ve got to get some more wins for them,” Keller explained.
What’s next for the Utah Mammoth?
The Utah Mammoth will continue their three-game home stand against the Florida Panthers on Wednesday night at 7 p.m. MT.
The game will be available on Mammoth+.
All Mammoth games will also be broadcast live on the KSL Sports Zone (97.5 FM/1280 AM).
Cole Bagley is the Utah Mammoth insider for KSL Sports. Keep up with him on X here. You can hear Cole break down the team on KSL Sports Zone and KSL 5 TV.
Take us with you, wherever you go.
