Cody Williams, a junior on the Santa Monica High football team, suffered a serious injury in the fourth quarter of the Vikings’ opening game 33-19 loss to Leuzinger High Friday night at Corsair Field.
Following a delay of more than 30 minutes, Williams was taken by ambulance to UCLA’s Reagan Medical Center where he is expected to remain for two weeks.
In an email to faculty and staff and then to the extended school family Saturday, SMC President Hugo Pedroza revealed that the team doctor said Williams suffered trauma to his cervical spine and underwent surgery by a respected medical team, but his family was told a full prognosis won’t be made for six to 12 months.
Friends visited over the weekend but Williams’ mother has asked that only family visit during upcoming weeks.
Marilyn Freedman, Director of Student Support Services, was asked to arrange for counseling this week for any students or adults who seek help in dealing with the matter.
The injury occurred with six minutes to play as Leuzinger was attempting an extra point. The large crowd became silent as officials gathered near the end zone and ultimately called for an ambulance.
The game was then completed and the fans departed silently.
