Singapore Sports School student, 14, dies after fitness trial
School to investigate death, as it mourns the loss of young badminton talent who had won several national age-group competitions
SINGAPORE — Singapore Sports School (SSP) said on Wednesday (11 October) it will investigate the death of a Secondary 2 student who had fallen ill after a fitness trial.
CNA reported that the 14-year-old student, who was identified by his uncle as Pranav Madhaik, felt unwell after participating in a 400m fitness time trial on 5 October.
The Singapore Civil Defence Force received a call for assistance at SSP around 6.50 pm that day. The young boy was transported to the National University Hospital, where he died on Wednesday.
Singapore Sports School mourns student's passing
In response to CNA's inquiries, the school conveyed its commitment to "undertake a detailed investigation into the incident", review their safety protocols and update the parents of its students.
It added in an issued statement, "As investigations are ongoing, we are not able to provide further details at this point. We seek the public's understanding to give the family privacy during this time of grief."
SSP said it was "deeply saddened" by Pranav's passing and extended its condolences to his family, describing him as a model student and athlete who excelled in badminton, and demonstrated exemplary character.
The school stated, "He was cheerful and pleasant, and always maintained a positive attitude towards his training and studies. He was a promising youth athlete and has won several national age-group competitions. He was also well-liked by his peers, teachers, and coaches."
It has extended its support for Pranav's family, as well as affected student-athletes, coaches and staff.
On Wednesday, SSP made a Facebook update by changing its cover photo to an all-black image and displaying the school logo in black and white.
Details of incident and Singapore Badminton Association's response
Pranav's uncle, Raj Verma, said that the boy's parents were informed about it en route to the hospital. "By the time the doctor attended (to him), most of his organs were already not functioning," he said.
The teenager underwent a bypass surgery and another operation on his leg, before succumbing to his injuries. The family is seeking answers from the school regarding the incident.
The Singapore Badminton Association's (SBA) chief executive officer Alan Ow also acknowledged awareness of the incident. He said, "SBA is providing assistance and support to the family while they prepare to send Pranav off.
According to CNA, Pranav was a member of the association's national intermediate squad, which is a youth training program for promising players.
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