A high school sophomore was injured playing in a football game in Sharon, Massachusetts, on Thanksgiving, causing him to collapse on the sidelines after suffering a traumatic brain injury, school and district officials announced Saturday.
According to a joint statement from Sharon Superintendent Peter Botelho and Sharon High Principal Kristen Keenan, the trainer, coachers and emergency personnel immediate responded to Rohan Shukla Thursday, and the game was terminated.
Shukla was taken to Good Samaritan Hospital in Brockton and then transferred to Massachusetts General Hospital, where he is currently being treated. There was no word on his condition.
"Our thoughts and prayers are going out to Rohan, his parents Abhishek and Deepika, and his twin brother Naman during this incredibly difficult time," Botelho and Keenan said in a statement. "While offering our heartfelt support, we respect the family’s privacy and consideration."
Officials noted the community's concern for the teen and said they would share more about Shukla's condition as they learn more, and when it's appropriate to do so.
"When one of the members of our community suffers in such a disturbing incident, it is understandable for his classmates, staff, and community members to respond with fear, sadness, and questions," school officials said.
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On Sunday, school-based counselors from the district and Riverside Community Services will be available at Sharon High School from 11 a.m. - 1 p.m. to support the football team and cheerleading squad. The counselors will be available to help other students, staff and community members from 1 p.m. - 3 p.m.
Before students return to school Monday, Sharon's superintendent and high school principal are asking parents and caregivers to talk with their children about their feelings. Staff will be prepared to respond with sensitivity and compassion, they said.
The Town of Sharon also has Interface Referral Services available for any resident who requires added services. They can be reached at 888-244-6843.
