Head of Glacier HS activities asks for “prayers” after lightning strike

KALISPELL – Three people were struck by lightning during a Glacier High School boy’s soccer practice Monday night.

“Our boys soccer team was practicing yesterday afternoon and there was lightning in our area and our teams were removed from the field. The coaches were monitoring the situation in terms of lightning and such and after over 30 minutes there was no more lightning, they went back on the field,” said Mark Dennehy, Glacier High School activities director. “And shortly after that lightning struck, we had two athletes and a coach that were struck by lightning in some way.”

All three people struck by lightning were taken to the hospital. One athlete and an assistant coach are responsive and remain at Logan Health, while another athlete is in intensive care.

Boys soccer head coach Ryan Billiet was the first to take life-saving measures, including using an AED.
“Our coach started it, and then our coach and then other people from the police and fire department followed up, and they did everything they could to take care of the young man and provide for him,” Dennehy said.

At the time of the incident, several teams were practicing on the fields. Coaches followed the school's storm protocol, which allows activities to resume 30 minutes after lightning leaves the area.

Trainers monitoring weather radars determined that the storm had passed, but then lightning struck again.

“Our message was that, first, we care about them and we want to take good care of them. Second, that their coaches are well trained and prepared for emergencies,” Dennehy said. “And third, if they need help, they can turn to our counseling services and our administration and coaching people who are there to support them.”

Counseling services are available at the school for those affected by this incident. Football training will resume on Tuesday evening and coaches will also be available to talk to the athletes.

The condition of the coach and the two athletes has not been disclosed at this time, but Dennehy admits that they are confident.

“You know, I think the most important thing is that we are just grateful to our first responders. They have given us so much support. And we ask our community for their prayers that our young people are safe and that everything will be OK,” Dennehy said.

We will continue to monitor this development and provide updates as they become available.