Freak accident sends javelin into teen athlete's eye
PORTLAND, OR -- A teenage track and field athlete was injured in a freak accident when he tripped and punctured his eye with a javelin.
Parker Kennedy, 17, was making practice throws at a USA track and field event at Jesuit High School in Portland, Oregon when he tripped over his cleats and fell forward.
The javelin punctured his right eye socket and became lodged into his head, KATU reports.
See also: Woman killed by beach umbrella in freak accident
Kennedy's coach, Donnie Heneirsen, says the teen will pull through.
The young athlete was on the field when he pulled the javelin from his face. He was rushed to the hospital thereafter.
The teen's mother says the damage is not critical, but will need reconstructive surgery.
Miraculously, doctors told Kennedy's mother that his eyesight should be able to be saved.
Kennedy recently committed to the University of Washington for pole vaulting.
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