(RepublicanInformer.com)- Ayr Centennials of the Greater Ontario Junior Hockey League (GOJHL) reportedly announced last week that Eli Palfreyman had passed away. He was 20 years old. No cause of death has yet been reported, but reports indicate that the recently-named captain collapsed in the dressing room during the first intermission of the pre-season event last week.
The police were called to the site and tried to revive him, but were ultimately unsuccessful.
“On Tuesday, August 30th, 2022, Waterloo Regional Police responded to a medical emergency at the North Dumfries Community Centre hockey arena located in the Township of North Dumfries,” the Waterloo Regional Police Service said.
“Members of the community assisted the individual until emergency services attended. The individual was transported to Cambridge Memorial Hospital where he was, unfortunately, pronounced deceased.”
The captain was reportedly feeling unwell after the first period and the coaches went to get assistance from paramedics at the game, including a doctor who was with the visiting team, the Boston Jr. Bruins from Marlborough, Mass.
“Eli had the best of care from our medical staff and quick response from the ambulatory staff,” Centennials vice president Brian Shantz wrote in a statement. “Out of respect for the family’s right for privacy we will not speculate on anything at this very difficult time,” wrote Shantz. “Medical doctors will have more answers for us in the coming days …Cents nation also needs time to heal during this devastating time.”
Residents in Ayr, Ontario have been deeply affected by the loss of Palfreyman, with one resident saying that the entire team is beloved and are a big part of the community, as they are seen helping others. The mayor has also come forward to say that the entire community is saddened.
