The Dekhockey world in Quebec is at a loss for words today, as 21-year-old goaltender Zachary Bourassa collapsed and died during a game.

Yesterday, someone shared a very sad story on social media, and this morning, Marco Normandin from HABSolumentFan gave the heart-aching details. A Dekhockey goalie named Zachary Bourassa, aged 21, died suddenly during a game that was part of an ongoing tournament this past weekend in Trois-Rivieres, Quebec.

“According to our information, early in the game, the young goalie felt unwell and called for help before collapsing into the arms of one of the officials. According to information gathered from his family by Radio-Canada journalist Kassandra Lebel, he suffered cardiac arrest.”

Zachary was a popular youngster and a dedicated goalkeeper who, with his regular team, had been playing in the finals of the tournament when, as it were, the unthinkable happened. Known for his passion for Dekhockey, he had an infectious spirit until he collapsed during the game, leaving all those who were present in a state of horror and shock.

A report states that an attempt at immediate resuscitation was performed. Continuous chest compressions were carried out on the scene by a nurse and respiratory therapist present. Despite repeated desperate attempts at reviving Zachary, hoping their relentless and heroic efforts could not do the job.

It was such a sad incident. It shocked the people within the community. Zachary had just turned 21, and from the description of the people who met him earlier in the day, nothing was wrong with his health. According to one witness, who was full of shock, Zachary had given no indication that such a disaster was about to occur.

The sudden death of Zachary Bourassa has left many people in shock and heartbroken. Besides those who are still trying to come to grips with the demise of such a young man, the Trois-Rivieres Dekhockey community, his friends, family members, and teammates remember him for loving the sport so much, having had such a bright personality, and such a kind heart.

We would like to extend our deepest sympathy in this hour of pain to Zachary’s family and loved ones. A loss this deep of such a young, energetic life really gives us a warning of how well one should consider every moment in life as precious and fragile.