KALISPELL — Three individuals were struck by lightning during a Glacier High School boys’ soccer practice on Monday evening.
Glacier High School Activities Director Mark Dennehy explained, “Our boys’ soccer team was practicing yesterday afternoon, and due to lightning in the area, they were taken off the field. Coaches closely monitored the situation and after 30 minutes with no lightning activity, the team returned to the field. Shortly thereafter, lightning struck, resulting in two athletes and a coach being affected in some way.”
All three individuals impacted by the lightning strike were taken to the hospital. One athlete and an assistant coach are responsive and remain at Logan Health, while another athlete is in the ICU.
Head coach Ryan Billiet initiated life-saving measures, including using an AED. Dennehy stated, “Our coach started the procedures, followed by our trainer, along with the police and fire department personnel, who did everything possible to care for and treat the young man.”
Multiple teams were practicing at the time of the incident, following the school’s storm protocol that allowed activities to resume 30 minutes after the lightning had cleared the area. Despite coaches monitoring weather radars indicating the storm had passed, another lightning strike occurred.
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Dennehy emphasized, “Our priority is their well-being, ensuring that our coaches are trained and prepared for emergencies. We offer guidance, counseling services, and unwavering support from our administrative and coaching staff.”
Counseling services will be provided through the school for those affected by the incident. Soccer practice will resume on Tuesday, and coaches will be available to speak with the athletes.
The conditions of the coach and two athletes are not disclosed at this time, but there is optimism for their recovery.
Dennehy expressed gratitude for the first responders and requested community prayers for the young people involved. Updates on this matter will be shared as they arise.
