Michigan State freshman defenseman Branden Carney suffered a serious neck injury during practice when he went head first into the boards during team drills. Because of the injury he will be out of action for the rest of the season.
The good news is the 19-year-old Battle Creek native does have feeling in his extremities after being transported to Sparrow Hospital.
“We fully support Branden, Russ, and the entire Carney family during this difficult time, and all of our thoughts and prayers are with Branden for a full recovery,” said athletic director Mark Hollis said in a released statement. “I’d like to thank all of our medical and support staff for their incredible work on Thursday, as well. Branden has been a member of our hockey program for a short time but has been a part of the larger Spartan Athletics family for much longer. We’re expecting that Branden will approach his upcoming recovery with the same passion and character he’s shown as he pursued his hockey career.”
Carney, 6-feet-2 and 190 pounds, has not played in any games this season.
“Our program is committed to support Branden and his family as he goes through the recovery process,” coach Tom Anastos said in a released statement. “This is a scary injury, but he’ll receive top-notch medical care, and we’ll be sure that everything is in place for him to receive the help and support he needs in the weeks and months ahead. Right now, we’re going to focus on supporting him and his family in the coming days, as they assess his immediate needs and treatment.”
Ref: Detroit Free Press,