HS Football Player Suffers 'Severe Spinal Injury' Amid Southwest RivCo Football Game

MURRIETA, CA — Family and friends are supporting a Vista Murrieta High School student and varsity football player severely injured in Friday's game, according to a GoFundMe recently shared across the county.

On Oct. 3, during the first quarter of the Vista Murrieta vs. Chaparral High School football game, Kainoa Ching suffered an injury to his spine, according to a booster-driven fundraiser to support what they say will be a lengthy recovery.

"Our beloved teammate and friend suffered a devastating injury," a spokesperson for the team wrote on the GoFundMe. "Kainoa is currently in the ICU in stable condition, surrounded by his family, teammates, and community who love and support him."

A Vista Murrieta football spokesperson shared that Kainoa had a "successful surgery, and is surrounded by those who love and support him," they shared over X, formerly Twitter. The road ahead will be long and filled with many challenges.

"We are asking for your help to support Kainoa and his family during this difficult time. Donations will go directly toward: Medical expenses related to his injury and treatment, rehabilitation costs as he begins his recovery journey, and family support needs while they remain by his side.

Broncos coach Coley Candaele said Vista Murrieta had "difficulty regaining focus after halftime as players’ attention remained on middle linebacker."

Ching collided with another player in the first quarter of the game while making a tackle. He was immobile on the field after the play, according to a report in the Press Enterprise. Broncos coach Coley Candaele spoke with reporters on the incident.

“It was a very emotional day for our kids, to come back and even play the game, it was real hard,” Candaele said. “No excuses, but after the second quarter, we had no emotion, half playing the game and half thinking about our teammate." Chaparral team physician Dr. Christopher Shin told reporters that "the 6-foot-1, 230-pound junior reported some movement in his arms and legs" as he was being placed into an ambulance.

"Kainoa is not just an incredible athlete, but also a hardworking student, a loyal friend and a young man full of heart and determination," the GoFundMe states. "His passion for football and his team is unmatched, and now it's our turn to rally behind him."

To help support the student and his family, visit www.gofundme.com.