Long Island Teen Thanks Coaches for Saving His Life During Tryout

UPDATE: An emotional reunion unfolded on November 22, 2023, as Francesco Allocca, a senior at Locust Valley High School, expressed heartfelt gratitude to the coaches who saved his life during a basketball tryout just days earlier. On November 17, Allocca collapsed from cardiac arrest, prompting his coaches and staff to spring into action with life-saving measures.

Allocca’s mother, Pia Allocca, recalled the moment she learned of her son’s condition. “When I heard cardiac arrest, I thought he didn’t make it,” she said. Her fears were alleviated when she saw Francesco in the emergency room at Glen Cove Hospital, where he was treated after the incident.

Coaches and staff at Locust Valley High responded swiftly, using CPR and an AED to revive Allocca just moments before local EMS arrived. “I’m extremely thankful and grateful that you guys were there and acted so quickly,” Allocca said, addressing the coaches during the reunion. “Without you guys, I wouldn’t be here.”

In a critical situation where every second counts, the quick thinking of the coaching staff was pivotal. Coach Andrew Siegel emphasized the importance of their training: “Thank God for the training. Honestly, without the training, I don’t know if this outcome is the same.”

As a result of their heroic actions, coaches were honored during the reunion event on the day before Thanksgiving, highlighting the importance of preparedness in schools. Locust Valley Central School District Superintendent Dr. Kristen Turnow announced ongoing efforts to enhance safety measures, including plans to install more AEDs in elementary schools and upgrade communication systems for instant response.

Francesco Allocca, who has since regained his health, is looking ahead to returning to the basketball court. “I’m ready to get back on the court,” he stated, reflecting his determination to continue playing the sport he loves.

This incident serves as a powerful reminder of the significance of CPR training and the availability of life-saving equipment in schools. As communities focus on safety, the heroic actions of the coaches at Locust Valley High School will resonate well beyond this moment, encouraging others to prioritize life-saving training.

Stay tuned for more updates on this inspiring story and the ongoing efforts to enhance student safety across schools.