Softball's Ecks: Close call, but safe

We still haven't heard from USF pitcher Cristi Ecks, or talked to the first of her teammates, but we're learning more about a frightening but heartening close call Tuesday afternoon. USF's standout junior pitcher collapsed during practice Tuesday and was unresponsive -- no breathing, no heartbeat -- for nearly three minutes before she could be revived. There have been so many tragedies to write about on this blog, so here's one scare that has a turn for the better. Lots to be said for Steve Walz and USF's athletic trainers ...

Comments

[Ari Hinkelberger]

Amazing. God Bless the trainer. And thank god for that defibulator.

Hopefully she gets back on the field soon.

[Blake]

Thank God we didn't have another promising young student taken from us again.

[Astro]

That story is amazing. The staff did a tremendous job getting Cristi back. Hope she makes it back to the diamond.

[Dave W]

It's great to hear that she's in good spirits and condition. It had to be a terrifying event for her and the team. The trainer was incredibly ready for such an event, and handled it perfectly. Hopefully Cristi will be back to school soon.

[sailingbull]

"Safe" ehh? Just couldn't resist the witty softball pun Greg?

[Terry Lucas]

Glad Cristi is in good health... and hopefully the doctors will figure out what knocked her down. She is by far the best softball player or athlete ever to come from Osbourn High School out of Manassas, VA and play for USF, and has been a dominant pitcher in the circle the last three seasons on the collegiate level. Here's hoping she gets healthy first... and hopefully she'll be able to catch her wind and get back in the circle once again. If not... thanks for the great ride Cristi! I was hoping to see you in OK City this year... get healthy and maybe I'll still get my wish!