Army athlete continues to recover

Army Gold team handball player Justine Swift continues to recover from injuries suffered while on the court at the Tar Heel Invitational last weekend.

According to Army coach CPT Jana Fajardo, Swift is on her way to Walter Reed Medical Center on Saturday.  At the largest and most well-known military hospital in the USA, "she will be in very good hands," Fajardo said.

Swift is a native of Belize is in her fourth and final year as part of the West Point's international exchange program.

According to eyewitness reports, Swift fell when she was about to pass the ball from the 9-meter line after a foul.

"She popped back up, took a few steps and then fell flat," said Darrick Heath, the USATH referee who was working the game.

In the ensuing seconds, three trainers raced to her care.  An external defibrillator was found, and 911 was called. Three trainers, identified as Tim Mauntel, Doug Bennet and Jen Robertson, are being credited for implementing an established "Emergency Action Plan" and most likely saving Swift's life.

By the time paramedics arrived, the gym had been cleared.  2LT Tamara Abraham accompanied Swift to the hospital.  Army decided not to continue the game (they were trailing by six goals with 4:22 left in the game), but later voted to continue to complete the tournament.  On Sunday, Army Black won the tournament.

"Winning the tournament was a bonus," said Fajardo.  "Justine's recovery and the (cadets') character on and off the court were much more gratifying.  They are developing nicely into future Army officers and I am very proud of them for that."

USA Team Handball sends its collective best wishes to Swift.  Additionally, the federation would like to express its thanks to the three trainers and Carolina Team Handball for their well-coordinated and life-saving response.