Texas Athletic Trainer Saves Collapsed Middle School Football Player Using AED

A seventh-grade football player in Texas survived a cardiac arrest during a game thanks to the quick and well-practiced response of athletic trainers and a new state law requiring cardiac emergency response plans (CERPs) in schools. The incident occurred at Trinity High School during a game between Hurst-Euless-Bedford ISD and Haltom Middle School, where Assistant Athletic Trainer Saad Rajabali administered an AED shock and performed CPR until emergency services arrived. The district had partnered with the American Heart Association to implement CERPs, training students from fifth grade up and ensuring AEDs were accessible and staff were prepared. Superintendent Joe Harrington emphasized the importance of preparedness and the goal to create a 'District of Lifesavers,' expressing pride that the training and emergency plans worked effectively. The player was reported stable and responsive on the way to the hospital, with ongoing tests but in good spirits. This case highlights the critical impact of mandated cardiac safety training and emergency preparedness in schools across Texas.