Post University Athletics

NBA Star Ryan Gomes Visits Post University

WATERBURY, Conn. (July 1, 2009) – NBA Star Ryan Gomes of the Minnesota Timberwolves visited Post University today to donate an Automatic External Defibrillator (AED). Gomes, a Waterbury native and graduate of Wilby High School, formed a foundation called Hoops for Heart Health to raise awareness of sudden cardiac arrest (SCA) in student-athletes.  

Gomes is using Post University as a training facility during the off-season in preparation for the upcoming NBA season. 

“It is important to donate to the community; giving back is part of my nature,” said Gomes.  “I look at the people who have helped me, taught me lessons, and guided me and I want to give kids an opportunity just as I had.”

An Act Concerning the Availability of Automatic External Defibrillators in Schools was signed into law by Governor Rell in June. The new law takes effect today, requiring schools in Connecticut to have one AED and a professional trained to operate the AED by July 1, 2010. 

“Ryan is a perfect example of what it means to be a role model,” said Post University Athletic Director Anthony Fallacaro. “These machines can be the difference between life and death for a student-athlete or fan, and all the schools Ryan has given these to are much safer for it.”

According to the American Heart Association, SCA can be reversed in most patients if treated within a few minutes with an electric shock to restore a normal heartbeat. Few attempts at resuscitation are successful beyond 10 minutes.

“Post University appreciates his generosity and this is a big help to the Eagles Athletics Program,” echoed Post University President Dr. Kenneth Zirkle. 

Post University Athletics will have licensed and certified athletic trainers who can operate the AED before the 2009-2010 athletics season begins.  

"What makes Ryan so special is his ability to connect with everyone he encounters," continued Fallacaro. "Whether it is young kids, high school athletes, or college athletes he is always willing to lend some advice and share his experiences with them. He truly cares about his community and is always looking to help. We are privileged to have him utilizing our fitness facility for his off season workouts.”