MERCER COUNTY, Ky. (LEX 18) — Members of the Mercer County Girls’ Varsity Soccer team are praying for the speedy recovery of their coach, Josh Culver.
Culver was one of the drivers involved in a head-on collision Saturday morning. The other driver died in the accident and Culver was airlifted to a local hospital.
Culver was on his way to a game for his soccer team in Montgomery County when the accident happened.
“I think it’s very frightening. We didn’t know anything all morning. We couldn’t get a hold of him. I think we were all just hoping for the best but expecting the worst,” said Bella Garrett, the team’s co-captain.
Garret said her team pushed through the Saturday game, but everyone’s heads and hearts were and continue to be with Coach Culver.
“I think once we know he’s home and safe it will be a big relief to the team knowing their coach is safe,” she said.
Mercer County Athletics Director Donald Smith confirmed Culver is awake and responsive after undergoing initial rounds of surgery.
“But he still has a long way to go. He’s got a few more surgeries he’s still got to get over in the next few weeks,” Smith said. “It just makes you realize how precious life is.”
Hospital restrictions because of COVID-19 mean only immediate family can visit Culver while he recovers.
Girls’ Varsity Soccer co-captain Abby Dean said it’s painful to know the team can’t be there in person to show their support.
“He’s always been there for us when we need him and it just sucks we can’t be there with him in these times,” Dean said. “I keep praying constantly and I know he’s going to be okay. He’s a fighter.”
Garrett said her mind has been constantly on Culver’s well-being since Saturday.
“Culver, we love you. We hope you’re doing good. You’ve been in my prayers all day and night,” she said. “You always told me they’d have to drag you off the field even if all your limbs were missing and I think that just goes to show that you will get through this. I truly believe you will. I hope God is with you and your family for a quick recovery.”
If you would like to reach out to the family with prayers or donations, you can get in contact with Donald Smith at donald.smith@mercer.kyschools.us.
