High school football player dies after on-field collision on Long Island

NEW YORK (WPVI) -- A high school football player died Wednesday night after being injured in game on Long Island in New York.

Junior Tom Cutinella, a guard/linebacker for Shoreham-Wading River High School, collapsed during the game against John Glenn High School after taking a big hit by an opponent and suffering a head injury.

The incident occurred in the third quarter of the game at John Glenn.

Cutinella underwent surgery, but later died at Huntington Hospital.

The Superintendent of Shoreham-Wading River Schools released a statement saying, "The Shoreham-Wading River School District community is terribly saddened to learn of the tragic death of Tom Cutinella, a high school junior and varsity football player. Tom passed away after colliding with an opponent in Wednesday night's game against Elwood John H. Glenn High School."

"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."

"Tom played football for the district since he entered the high school in ninth grade, becoming a member of the varsity team this year. In addition, Tom played lacrosse and was a member of the Natural Helpers program, which focuses on peers helping peers. He excelled academically, had a great sense of humor and was just a great individual overall. He was well-liked among students and staff and he will truly be missed."

"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. 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."