High School Football Tragedy

Last Friday night the Bishop Kelly Knights played the Kuna Kavemen in the first round of the Idaho High School Football Playoffs.  Based on the previous meeting between these two teams, the game had the potential of being a great game.  The two teams have been rivals for many years.  Ask any former player from either school  and more than likely they can tell you about the time they played each other.

The game and the rivalry seemed far less important after the tragic event which occurred in the first quarter.  Boone Bartlome, a junior wide receiver for Kuna, suffered a broken neck when attempting a block.  After the play Boone laid motionless on the field for more than 30 minutes while the crowd watched with anxiety and hope.  During the time Boone was being attended to by medical personnel, the teams, the crowd, the cheerleaders prayed. 

It took some time for the paramedics to secure Boone and load him into the ambulance.  At that point I was reminded of the strength of humanity and why I love high school sports.  Moments after the ambulance pulled away, both teams gather in the center of the field, taking a knee and bowing their heads as the Kuna coach led both teams in a prayer for Boone, his family, and his recovery.  Describing the image as inspiring does not do it justice.

Boone was rushed to the hospital and underwent spinal cord surgery to repair the broken vertebrae.  The reports after the surgery have been optimistic, but it will be possibly weeks before the swelling goes down and they can assess the extent of the injury.  Regardless, Boone and his family are facing an incredible and long journey to recovery.

Since the tragic event on Friday, both schools have held rallies and prayer services in honor of Boone and his family.  The community is trying in every way to show Boone and the Bartlome family they are loved and supported. 

This week instead of answering a question or sharing your opinion, I would like for you to leave Boone a message.  Thank you.