Forsyth Co. football player collapses during practice

FORSYTH COUNTY, Ga. — A member of the South Forysth High School football team collapsed with painful body cramping near the end of the team's practice Thursday morning.

Paramedics rushed the player to Northside/Forsyth Hospital where he was held overnight for treatment and observation.

"The trainer on site immediately felt once the cramping continued, it would be best to call 911," said school Principal Jeff Cheney.

Cheney told Channel 2's Tom Regan that the 17-year-old student may have suffered from a nutritional deficiency and dehydration rather than heat stress.

"We heard the student did not have breakfast that morning. Our trainer sent out a notice about the importance of having breakfast and starting intake of fluids prior to practice," Cheney said.

The principal said school Athletic Director Keith Gravett and the football coach follow all regulations to protect student athletes during summer time practice.

Gravett showed Regan a device used to measure heat, humidity and wind conditions on the field. It's called a wet-bulb device.

Based on readings, practice drills can be modified to provide more water and rest breaks in shaded areas, as well as removal of helmets and pads, and reduced practice time.

"Student safety is paramount here at our school. And I'm confident our trainer, athletic director and coach are following heat and index regulations to a T," Cheney said.

The name and condition of the student were not released. He was scheduled for discharge from the hospital Friday afternoon.

http://bcove.me/befft34r

WSBTV