The Shoreham-Wading River School community is grieving following the tragic death of high school junior Tom Cutinella, 16, a varsity athlete who died shortly after colliding with an opponent during last night’s football game against John H. Glenn High School in Elwood.

“Our school community is truly devastated by this awful news and we all extend our deepest condolences to Tom’s family and friends during this difficult time,” said Shoreham-Wading River Schools Superintendent Dr. Steven Cohen.

According to reports, Cutinella collapsed shortly after play had stopped and was immediately transported to Huntington Hospital.

Cutinella first made varsity this year and was also a member of the lacrosse team and the school’s Natural Helpers peer counseling program. He is remembered for his great sense of humor and for his overall greatness, both in school and on the field.

“Each student is a valued member of our educational community and a young person’s death is always tragic. A sudden loss like this can have a profound effect on the entire school community,” Cutinella said. “Grief counselors will be made available to students and staff for as long as needed as we mourn and cope with the loss of such an amazing life.”