Glenwood High Grade 10 learner collapses and dies during soccer match

GLENWOOD High school is mourning the loss of one of their learners, a Grade 10 hockey player, who died yesterday afternoon while participating in a warm-up soccer game on Tuesday, March 18.

The KwaZulu-Natal (KZN) MEC for Education, Sipho Hlomuka, said the Grade 10 learner had been preparing for a hockey match in the warm-up soccer game when he began to feel unwell.

“The young learner was participating in a warm-up soccer game when he requested to be substituted and stepped aside for some air. Tragically, he collapsed, and despite the tireless efforts of paramedics to resuscitate him, he was pronounced deceased at the scene. Upon receiving the devastating news, the Head of Department, Nkosinathi Ngcobo, immediately rushed to the scene alongside the learner’s family, educators, and other departmental officials to offer support during this difficult time. We also extend our sincere appreciation to the emergency response teams for their swift intervention,” said Hlomuka.

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The headmaster of the school, Pierre Jacobs, and the school governing body chairperson, Dr Ramesur Maharaj, issued a statement yesterday evening, confirming the tragic incident. In the statement, Jacobs said he will address the school this morning about the fatal incident following a short staff meeting.

“As a community, we extend our heartfelt condolences to his immediate family and wish them strength during this profoundly difficult time,” said Jacobs. He said despite the efforts of staff and paramedics, they were unable to resuscitate the young learner, and offered his condolences to the grieving family.

“We appreciate and understand that there will be much speculation and potential for misinformation at this traumatic time, and therefore wanted to confirm that there had been an incident where a boy had collapsed following an activity and despite efforts from Glenwood staff and ALS Paramedics, he unfortunately passed away. May the young Glenwood boy rest in eternal peace,” said Jacobs.

He added the school has requested psychological support for staff and learners from the department following the traumatic passing away of a learner while surrounded by his peers.

Hlomuka said the department will honour the school’s request for counselling. He said, “As the KZN Department of Education, we recognise the immense grief felt by all who knew him. We will continue to work closely with Glenwood High School to ensure that the necessary psychological and emotional support is provided to learners, educators, and the bereaved family. We ask the community to keep the family in their thoughts and prayers. May the young soul rest in eternal peace.”

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Meanwhile, condolences have been streaming in on the school’s social media pages. On Facebook, Jayson van Schalkwyk wrote, “This is devastating news for the young man’s parents, siblings, family and his classmates and peers. Sincerest condolences to all. As a Glenwood old boy, there is ZERO doubt in my mind that the staff, and the young men of Glenwood will rally to support and embrace the grieving family.”

Xolile Nxumalo said, “My heartfelt condolences to the Glenwood family, the young man’s family, his classmates and friends. May his soul rest in peace. May all of you find comfort in the beautiful memories he created whilst at the school.”

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