High School Football Player Andrew Swank Dies After Hit To Head

by Jon Azpiri | September 29, 2009 at 01:38 pm

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Andrew Swank, a high school football player from Spokane Valley, has died after suffering a hit to the head in a football game last Friday.

Swank died Sunday night at Sacred Heart Medical Center after undergoing surgery to relieve pressure on his brain.

Swank's Valley Christian team was playing a road game against Washtucna High School. During the game, Swank took a hard hit during the game. The defensive back walked then walked to the sideline and collapsed. Swank was airlifted to Sacred Heart Hospital in Spokane.

Swank's coaches at Valley Christian insist that no one is to blame for Andrew Swank's tragic death.

"He was just a great kid," said coach Jim Puryear, who, with his assistant Mike Heden, traveled to Kahlotus, Wash., to console the opposing player who delivered the block. "It was a fluke thing."

He said they wanted the opposing player to know it was "nobody's fault," Puryear said.

Valley Christian School postponed its game this week out of respect to Swank and his family.

The Swank family is now faced with large medical bills that could force them to lose their home. Those interested in helping the Swanks pay Andrew Swank's medical fees can donate at Spokane Teachers Credit Union under "Andrew Swank."

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