Grapeland ISD Reports Two Student-Athletes Recovering After Separate Practice Incidents
By Greg Ritchie
Messenger Reporter
GRAPELAND — Grapeland Independent School District (GISD) has clarified that two student-athletes experienced separate medical situations during football practice Monday morning, Sept. 7. According to the district, both students are recovering well.
One student sustained an injury during practice. His parents picked him up and transported him to Palestine and then Tyler for assessment and treatment.
The second student experienced a medical emergency. The coaching staff immediately implemented the district’s Emergency Action Plan, which is aligned with University Interscholastic League (UIL) guidelines and recommendations for heat and student safety.
The situation initially appeared to be heat-related. However, while the student was being taken to the cold-immersion tub, his condition changed. Coaches quickly recognized that it was a different type of medical emergency and adjusted their response.
The district said 911 was called without delay. Coaches and student-athletes provided care until emergency medical personnel arrived, and the student was then transported by ambulance to a medical facility for further evaluation and treatment.
The district did not identify either student or disclose specific medical conditions.
“The safety and well-being of all of our students is our top priority,” GISD said in its statement. The district also expressed gratitude for the preparation and quick thinking demonstrated by the coaching staff, as well as the emergency medical personnel who responded.
Counselors were made available to students and staff throughout the week, and the district said those services and other support would remain available as needed.
According to the students’ parents, both are recovering well. The parents of the student who experienced the medical emergency also told the district that doctors commended the coaching staff for following proper procedures to protect the student’s health and well-being.
Grapeland Police Department (GPD) also issued a letter of commendation to the coaches and student-athletes. In the letter, Officer Carly Foster wrote, “I was incredibly impressed by the composure, cooperation and willingness to act demonstrated by these student-athletes and their coaches.”
Following the incidents, GISD canceled junior high, junior varsity and varsity football games scheduled for Wednesday and Thursday. High school practices continued under the district’s safety procedures.
The district thanked the Grapeland community for its support and concern and encouraged anyone with questions to contact GISD at 936-687-4619.
Greg Ritchie can be reached at [email protected]
