Local News

Sharon High School football player hospitalized during Thanksgiving game

School administrators expressed "thoughts and prayers" for student Rohan Shukla, who experienced a traumatic brain injury during the annual Thanksgiving football game.

December 1, 2024

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A Sharon High School football player was sent to the hospital during the school’s annual Thanksgiving game, school administrators said in a letter to the Sharon community.

The letter, from Sharon Public Schools Superintendent Peter J. Botelho and SHS Principal Kristen Keenan, said student Rohan Shukla experienced a “traumatic brain injury” during the game. Shukla, a sophomore, was injured during play and collapsed on the sidelines, the letter said.

The administrators said the game was “terminated” immediately as trainers, coaches, and emergency personnel rushed to help Shukla. First responders took Shukla to Good Samaritan Hospital in Brockton and then to Massachusetts General Hospital in Boston, where he is receiving treatment as of Saturday, according to the letter.

“Our thoughts and prayers are going out to Rohan, his parents Abhishek and Deepika, and his twin brother Naman during this incredibly difficult time,” the letter said. “While offering our heartfelt support, we respect the family’s privacy and consideration.”

A GoFundMe for Shukla and his family had raised more than $25,000 as of Sunday, and donations had been turned off.

In the letter, the administrators shared on-campus resources for community members who want support after the incident. The letter said school counselors from the district and Riverside Community Services were at Sharon High School on Sunday to support the football team and cheer squad, as well as other community members.

“In addition, before our return to school on Monday, we invite parents and caregivers to talk with their children about feelings associated with the incident,” the letter said. “Our staff will be prepared to respond to the incident with sensitivity and compassion.”

The administrators also recommended that anyone who needs “added services” contact William James Interface Referral Service at 888-244-6843 for a referral to a mental health specialist.