High School Soccer Player Dies Following First Practice of the Season

I wish they had reported whether a bystander administered CPR or someone used the AED that really has to be at the scene of a practice or actual contest in inter-mural sports.

Here's the problem: they don't all come back, and when you do what you are supposed to do.

Statistically, it's unlikely that the school has an AED at every game or practice, but I don't want to beat on their heads about this without knowing what the situation is.


Submitted by SCAFoundation on Tue, 08/16/2011 - 11:16am School News
PITTSBUGH--The first soccer practice of the season turned tragic for Beaver County Christian School, as 15-year-old sophomore Sam Dickson collapsed Monday morning at Brush Creek Park near Beaver Falls and was later pronounced dead at Ellwood City Hospital.

According to a release from the school's director of recruitment and advancement, Rose McChesney, Dickson collapsed during a break between drills as the practice was drawing to a close. Emergency crews arrived quickly, and he was transported to the hospital, where he was pronounced dead at 12:30 p.m.

"Naturally, we are in shock and grief over this event," the release said. "But along with his parents, we rejoice in Sam's vibrant faith and deep commitment to Christ. We grieve, but not as those 'Who have no hope,' as we read in 1 Thessalonians 4:13."

McChesney said there would be no further comment yesterday from the school administration or athletic department, with the school planning to handle the matter internally with Dickson's family.

Lawrence County deputy coroner Sam Teolis said an autopsy was performed, and the office should have the results in "hopefully, no more than a week."

Last fall, Dickson helped Beaver County Christian to a third-place finish in the WPIAL Class A playoffs and an appearance in the state quarterfinals, where he scored the team's only goal in a 3-1 loss to Mercyhurst Prep.

Josh Bostanic, who was a senior defender with Beaver County Christian last year, posted a piece of scripture and a message to Dickson on his Facebook wall.

"You will be missed Sam Dickson," it read.

SOURCE: PIttsburgh Tribune Review