New York teen Connor Kasin dies after collapsing at hockey game
MASSAPEQUA, N.Y. -- A Long Island community is grieving a high school hockey player's sudden death.
Connor Kasin, a senior at Massapequa High School, was playing with the varsity team on Saturday night at the Town of Oyster Bay Ice Skating Center in Bethpage, when he lost consciousness on the ice during an intermission, according to Nassau County police.
People at the game administered CPR until first responders arrived. Kasin was taken to the hospital, but he didn't make it.
Police said it's unclear what caused the 17-year-old's death and that an investigation is ongoing.
"He was a coach's dream"
Friends said Kasin was everything one would want in person and teammate.
"He was a coach's dream. You coach him and he loved the game. It's missing someone. It's missing someone very special," said Jeff Tempone, coach of Kasin's travel team, the Long Island Sharks. "Probably in the best shape on the team, as far as being physical, and was just a great kid, highly coachable kid, always encouraging his teammates on the bench.
"It was devastating. It's a 17-year-old kid, has his whole life ahead of him," Tempone added.
Adding to the devastation, Kasin was taking part in a charity game honoring Syosset High School graduate Sabrina Navaretta, who died in a car accident last year. The foundation in her name raises scholarship money and offers support to grieving parents whose children have passed.
John and Mara Navaretta addressed Kasin's death, saying, in part:
"Our family extends our condolences to Connor's family, teammates, friends, and the community. We know the heartbreak that you are all going through and we will be here for you.
"There are no words to convey our heartbreak that we feel as last night was supposed to be a fun night. The community came together to celebrate Sabrina's life and our family's commitment to help with scholarship, dog rescue and assisting grieving parents.
"We would like the Kasin family to know our commitment to you. Connor was there to play for Sabrina and our family is here for you.
"Please take the time to grieve and be kind to yourself as the waves of grief can knock you over. John and I are here for you when you are ready.
"Sending you love and strength in the coming days and weeks. Embrace the communities love and know that you are not alone."
Massapequa High School to provide grief counselors
In a letter to high school faculty, staff and parents, Massapequa Public Schools Superintendent William Brennan said:
"It is with profound sorrow that I inform you of the tragic loss of one of our beloved Massapequa High School students, Connor Kasin. Connor was a cherished member of our school community, known for his kindness, positivity, enthusiasm, and big smile. He had a way of bringing light and joy to those around him, and his absence will be felt deeply by all of us.
"Our hearts are heavy as we grieve alongside Connor's family and friends during this incredibly difficult time. We understand that this loss may raise many emotions, and we want to assure you that support is available. Our school counseling teams are here to provide emotional support to students, staff, and families. We encourage anyone who feels they need assistance to contact their school.
"As we navigate this difficult time, we kindly ask that you keep Connor's family in your thoughts and prayers, and respectfully honor their privacy as they cope with this immeasurable loss.
"Please know that we are committed to supporting one another through this challenging time. Together, we will honor Connor's memory and provide care for those who are grieving."
Administration officials added the grief counselors will be available all week for students and families.
Kasin's high school coaches said in a statement, "Connor was and always will remain one of the most hardworking, dedicated, and spirited players. Our bench will feel empty without Connor."
Nassau County executive, N.Y. Islanders offer condolences
"My thoughts and prayers are with the family of 12th grade student Connor Kasin, who sadly passed during a charity varsity ice hockey game in Bethpage. My deepest condolences to the whole Massapequa community, especially Connor's loved ones, friends, and teammates," Nassau County Executive Bruce Blakeman said.
The outpouring of support on social media included the New York Islanders, who said, in part, "Our deepest condolences to the family, friends, and teammates of Connor Kasin, a beloved member of the Massapequa and Long Island hockey community."
Flags were also lowered at the Town of Oyster Bay Ice Skating Center in Kasin's memory.
"He was a great teammate and a great kid and it's a reflection on his family," Tempone said. "My heart breaks for his mom and dad. I couldn't imagine.
"The hockey community is very special. It's small, but it's very powerful," he added.
