A high school hockey player from Long Island, Connor Dubeau, is back on his feet and returning for his senior year after a harrowing near-death experience and suffering a broken neck, which sent shockwaves through the sports community.
“There were multiple significant miracles,” Connor’s father, Mark Dubeau, shared with The Post.
Just last month, Connor endured a devastating accident at Gilgo Beach, where he fell and broke the C-4 bone in his neck, temporarily paralyzing him while submerged.
His close buddy and junior Islanders teammate, Kevin Bonino, a senior at Chaminade High School, acted quickly to rescue him from the water, assisted by another bystander, Jake Geller.
“He was able to walk out of the hospital only two and a half weeks later,” said Mark. He credited Connor’s outstanding physical condition from hockey for his remarkable recovery following neck surgery. “It’s astonishing… it’s wonderful that he can be back at school now.”
Throughout this challenging time, Connor received tremendous support and love.
Mark praised Kevin Bonino as “an incredible player and a fantastic teammate,” noting that emotional support from him during Connor’s hospital stay was invaluable. “You could really see the special bond between those two,” he remarked.
As word of Connor’s story spread, it reached the NHL.
Boston Bruins draft pick James Hagens, a fellow Long Islander, reached out during Connor’s recovery. Islanders captain Anders Lee sent him messages, along with former Islanders Matt Martin and Josh Bailey.
“Connor’s favorite player, P.K. Subban, even sent him a personal video message and shared his journey on social media,” Mark added.
“Recently, in an inspiring gesture, Mr. Bobby Orr also called Connor. The hockey community has shown tremendous support.”
However, the most significant blessing for the Dubeau family is having Connor return healthy and happy.
“Connor is attending hockey practice at least a couple of times a week to spend time with his friends in the locker room,” his father noted.
Meanwhile, in high school football, 2-0 Farmingdale will take on 1-1 Herricks/Wheatley this Friday at 6:30 p.m.
On Saturday, 2-0 Jericho is set to play against 1-1 MacArthur at 2 p.m.
