Malik Maban, a 15-year-old athlete and beloved student at Cummings High School, passed away on September 23, 2024, as a result of a sudden collapse during football practice. This unimaginable tragedy devastated the Allmans-Burlington School System (ABSS) and the surrounding community. As a result of Malik's sudden passing, the community, faculty and staff came together to support his family and celebrate the life of a young man who was very involved in athletics and the classroom.
the miserable day
Malik, a spirited 10th grade football player, arrived at Cummings High School on a regular late September afternoon for practice. Reports indicate that the pre-practice environment was electric with the usual team spirit as teammates warmed up for drills and strategy meetings in the North Carolina sun. However, the regularity of the day improved, when Malik suddenly fainted before the start of practice, shocking everyone on the field.
When Malik unexpectedly fainted upon entering the soccer field, witnesses reported seeing a state of uncertainty and terror. Fortunately, the school's athletic trainer was nearby and quickly moved to try to revive the unconscious teenager by performing cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR). Malik was taken to a nearby hospital where, unfortunately, he was pronounced dead despite the quick action of the coach and the quick arrival of Emergency Medical Services (EMS).
