Athlete Ben Yoder injured in home soccer game

The foul that took place in the final 4 minutes of the EMU men's soccer game versus Eastern University was shocking, flagrant, and left the team reeling.

Ben Yoder was making a run upfield to follow the play and was met with a vicious fist to the chest, knocking him to the ground. Yoder's opinion about the incident is that "the Eastern player intended on injuring" him. Ben lost control of his breathing and experienced a lack of control over his body. When head coach Roger Mast noticed Ben was down, he conceded the game for the safety of his players.

Although soccer is inherently physical, this particular match brought out the worst in one Eastern player. When the referee questioned him, the player replied, "He's lying, he's lying, I didn't touch him!" according to an EMU player. Although Yoder's teammates were furious that there was no penalty given, they ultimately cared more about Yoder's safety.

Yoder was taken to the Rockingham Memorial Hospital's emergency room to make sure ribs were not broken or lungs punctured. Doctors took an x-ray and administered diagnostic tests to determine the extent of his injury. Finding no severe internal damage, doctors indicated that a deep bruise of his chest would remain for a few days and that he would recover fully.

Practicing with the team has been difficult and arduous, said Yoder. Since today's game versus Shepherd has been postponed until Oct. 6, Yoder will have a period of time to recuperate. He is now cleared to play, and hopes to join his team in the game against Shepherd.

Sportsmanship is a major issue that threatens to hurt Eastern University's reputation as a respected opponent. Coach Mast received an apology via phone from Eastern. Whether or not EMU will play them again next year could be in debate.

Yoder is thankful for his team, who stood up for him when he was not capable, and his fans, who offer unlimited support and prayers while he recovers.