Out for the Year, But Not Out of the Game

Christian Kuntz was injured in football practice two weeks ago in what seemed like a typical day of drills.

Instead, the injury on Aug. 18 sent the high school senior to the hospital in excruciating pain and into surgery. The Colts begin their season at home tonight against Montour.

 "It was just another tackle, but I took a heel or something to my side" said Kuntz.

The pressure from that impact ruptured his spleen. After surgery, the 17-year-old spent five days in Mercy Hospital in Pittsburgh, before another few weeks at home recovering. Now, he is back at school, although it will be several months before he is fully recovered. He has some lingering soreness from the surgery, but is progressing.

Because of his injury, he is not able to play football or basketball for the rest of the year. It's not the senior year he envisioned for himself, but this young man is moving forward with a positive attitude and optimism that's impressive and inspiring.

"This is just a small segment of my life," said Kuntz smiling. "At least that's what my mom keeps telling me."

The outpouring of concern and support he felt from his team and friends was overwhelming. They visited him in the hospital, called, and sent many gifts. He is grateful and thankful for all of these. It was very obvious that he is respected and admired by peers and coaches.

Kuntz is unsure of what the future will bring. For now, he's enjoying his senior year and thinking about his options for a life that is surely going to be remarkable.

A ruptured spleen is a medical emergency and must be treated at once. It causes severe pain and if not treated can be fatal.