Mike Norvell shares encouraging update on Ethan Pritchard as he recovers from shooting
By Derek Hryn
Published:
Florida State head coach Mike Norvell delivered some hopeful news Monday on freshman linebacker Ethan Pritchard, who’s been in critical condition since being shot last month in Havana, Florida.
Norvell said Pritchard opened his eyes on Sunday morning — a milestone moment in what has been a long and emotional fight for the 18-year-old.
“Yesterday, he opened his eyes,” Norvell said Monday. “It was something that was emotional for everybody to be honest with you. There’s still a long part of his process moving forward, but it puts all things in perspective, the appreciation of a blink. He’s fighting, his family is there, so very supportive.”
Norvell emphasized that Pritchard’s road to recovery still has “major steps” ahead, but he made sure to share the positive news with the team during Sunday’s meeting. The room lit up when Norvell told them about the progress.
The shooting left Pritchard in critical but stable condition, and four arrests have been made in connection with the attack. Authorities said he was ambushed after leaving a family cookout in what they believe was a case of mistaken identity.
“He’s fighting for it every single day,” Norvell said.
