Free cardiac testing for soccer players

The Heartbeat of Football Foundation has carried out free cardiac testing at James Browne Oval, Woy Woy, at Southern and Ettalong United Football Club for over-35's and over-45's soccer players from across the Coast on August 4.

The testing was carried out by trained medical professionals from the Victor Chang Institute.

It comes three years after the sudden and unexpected death of over-45's Southern player, Mr Mickey Dean, who suffered a fatal heart attack during a game in 2015.

Mr Dean's death rocked the football community, locally and internationally, and was the catalyst for the installation of defibrillators across most NSW football grounds, said Southern club president Mr Glen Balneaves.

Mr Balneaves said the testing "proved invaluable", with several players who were tested referred on to their doctors to discuss their results.

"We had around 80 players tested and it just shows how valuable the service," he said.

Mr Balneaves said the club was discussing the possibility of bringing the Heartbeat Foundation to the Peninsula on a yearly basis.

Through bar takings following the event, the club raised $1000 to donate to the Foundation.

SOURCE:

Media release, 5 Aug 2018

Glen Balneaves, Southern and Ettalong United