SCSD Community Members Help Save Referee's Life
A routine afternoon on the soccer field turned into a medical emergency Wednesday when a referee suddenly collapsed during a JV girls soccer game at Smithtown High School East. What happened next was a powerful example of teamwork, preparation and community—as Smithtown parents, coaches and our athletic trainer worked together with the East Islip family to provide lifesaving care.
"In a matter of seconds, an extraordinary team effort swung into action," said High School East Principal, Paul McNeil.
About 30 minutes into the game, the official suddenly went down, leaving players, coaches and spectators stunned.
Among those who rushed to help was Smithtown parent Jennifer Carney, who was at the game taking photographs. A volunteer EMT with the St. James Fire Department, Carney quickly ran to do chest compressions and was joined by head coach Amanda Valente and athletic trainer, Kelsey McCulley who retrieved the school's automated external defibrillator (AED). They assessed the referee, applied the AED pads and delivered a shock when the device indicated it was needed.
“A bunch of us ran over and we just started CPR and we got the AED out, placed the pads on him, noticed his rhythm was off, and we shocked him,” Carney said.
The coordinated response continued until additional emergency personnel arrived.
The incident underscored the importance of having trained personnel, emergency equipment and people willing to step forward when seconds matter.
