Walton Academy football player ‘critical but stable’ after collapse

A Walton County youth was in critical but stable condition in an Atlanta hospital, three days after he collapsed during football practice at school earlier in the week, his family said in a statement Thursday afternoon.

Jon Ross Snell was flown by medical helicopter to Children’s Healthcare of Atlanta at Egleston on Monday afternoon. Snell is on the 7th grade football team at George Walton Academy, according to a roster on the school’s website.

The family’s statement, emailed to the AJC, said the youth’s parents Van and Nan Snell and his sister Peyton “would like to gratefully acknowledge the huge outpouring of concern, sympathy and especially the prayers extended for their son during this difficult time.

“They have been surrounded by a host of family, friends and community that have given them invaluable support and love over the past three days,” the statement continued. “Their faith is steadfast that God’s healing hand will be with Jon Ross throughout his recovery.”

The cause of Jon Ross’ illness was not disclosed.

The youth was practicing with his team shortly before 4 p.m. Monday when he told his coach he didn’t feel well, the Monroe Fire Department told Channel 2. Snell then lost consciousness.