Referee Saved by Quick Action After Collapsing at UW-Parkside Soccer Match

In Kenosha, WI, a men’s soccer match at UW-Parkside turned into a life-or-death situation on Sept. 14 when referee Olu Waseyiafuwape collapsed mid-game.

“It was a blessing,” Waseyiafuwape said. “I really do appreciate God putting those people there.”

The game had been progressing normally when the referee suddenly fell to the ground.

“At first, I thought he was tripping over, I didn’t think much of it,” recalled senior player Jaime Le Comte. “But then he hit the ground quite hard and didn’t move. My initial instinct was to get to him as quick as I can.”

Le Comte was the first at Waseyiafuwape’s side.

“I got to the referee and turned him over onto his side, and I suddenly froze because I didn’t realize, I didn’t know what to do,” he said. “I didn’t know what was happening and it was really scary.”

He quickly shouted for help.

That’s when Parkside’s assistant Athletic Trainer, Kaela Johnson, stepped in. She determined Waseyiafuwape was experiencing a cardiac event.

“It’s unfortunate what happened, but glad we were right place, right time and were able to use the skills that we have,” Johnson said.

With the help of a nurse in the stands, she began chest compressions and used an AED to stabilize him.

“I didn’t know what happened until the EMT in the back of the truck told me, ‘Hey dude, you just flatlined,’” Waseyiafuwape said. “There was no way.”

Now recovering, he remains grateful.

“I’m thanking God every day for this second opportunity in life,” he said.

Inspired by the incident, Le Comte enrolled in a first aid and CPR class.

“If there’s a next time, I’ll be prepared—and I recommend others do the same.”

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