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In a dramatic turn at a South Dearborn high school basketball game, a life-threatening medical emergency was heroically averted by the quick actions of Athletic Trainer Jake Steinmetz and nurse Tara Cutter.
The game, which saw the South Dearborn Knights, of Aurora Indiana, facing the East Central Trojans, came to a sudden halt when a woman in the stands collapsed.
Steinmetz, responding to calls for a medic, sprang into action.
"I heard someone yell medic and I looked back and saw seven or eight people surrounding a person."
With his instincts guiding him and the adrenaline pumping, Steinmetz, alongside Cutter, began administering CPR within 30 seconds of the woman's collapse.
The situation was critical, but Steinmetz’s swift response and the availability of an AED in the gym, which was brought to them in less than two minutes, played a pivotal role in saving her life.
The victim was rushed to the hospital by Aurora EMS, who arrived within four minutes, and was later reported to be conscious and speaking.
Steinmetz, in his first year as Athletic Trainer at South Dearborn after serving at East Central Middle School, emphasized the importance of quick and efficient action.
"It just goes to show we all collectively did our part to provide the best possible outcome."
He also acknowledging the collective effort, including Assistant Principal Curt Bontrager’s role in securing the AED.
His advice for anyone in a similar situation is to remain calm and trust their instincts.
The South Dearborn athletic department lauded Steinmetz for his composure and quick thinking, naming him the "Impact Player of the Game."
The incident not only highlights the importance of emergency preparedness but also showcases the vital role Athletic Trainers like Steinmetz play in ensuring the safety and well-being of both athletes and spectators alike.
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