By Jaelyn Leyser and Lilly Dunkin
On January 6, 2026, what started as a normal basketball game at Anderson County High School quickly turned into a scary situation. During the ACHS vs. Fredonia girls’ basketball game, a Fredonia student began choking in the stands. Thanks to the fast response of retired ACHS staff member Mr. Alley, the situation was handled quickly and safely.
Several students and adults nearby said the incident happened very fast. Even though there were nurse practitioners in the stands, Mr. Alley was the closest person and immediately stepped in to help.
Mrs. Velvick, who witnessed the incident, described what she saw:
“I looked over and saw him asking someone if they were okay, and she was not okay. Her face was turning red, and all of a sudden he came up behind her and started doing the Heimlich. Then she spit out her pickle, and someone nearby caught it.”
Mr. Alley later shared his perspective on what happened. He had arrived at the gym to announce the game when he noticed a student bent over behind the Fredonia bench. At first, he thought she might be sick, but when he asked if she was okay, she shook her head no and was unable to breathe or talk.
Realizing she was choking, Mr. Alley told people nearby to call 911 and find the school resource officer. He then performed the Heimlich maneuver. After two abdominal thrusts, the student expelled a large piece of pickle and was able to breathe again almost immediately.
Afterward, the student laughed nervously and thanked Mr. Alley as friends and adults nearby checked to make sure she was okay. Mr. Alley took a few minutes to calm down before continuing his job announcing the game.
Looking back, Mr. Alley said he was simply in the right place at the right time and credited his training for allowing him to act quickly. He hopes the incident encourages others to learn the Heimlich maneuver and be willing to step in during emergencies.
Knowing how to perform the Heimlich is important because choking can happen to anyone, anywhere. Being prepared can help save a life — just like it did that night at ACHS.
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