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PROVO, Utah (Aug. 16, 2002) -- Senior offensive lineman Ben Archibald suffered a mid-shaft compound fracture to both his fibia and tibia in his left leg during Friday morning's practice. According to head trainer George Curtis, Archibald will miss the remainder of the season. "Our thoughts and prayers go out to Ben and his wife," BYU head coach Gary Crowton said. "It's hard to see these great young men go down with an injury, especially one like this. However, Ben is in good spirits, and is in excellent care."
Archibald, a Lombardi Award and Outland Trophy Award candidate, was taken by ambulance to Utah Valley Regional Medical Center where his condition will be evaluated by orthopedic specialists. Head trainer George Curtis said he expected Archibald will undergo surgery to repair the fractures as early as this afternoon.
Following the accident, the team gathered on the sidelines to pray. After Archibald was taken from the field, Crowton gathered the team and cancelled the remainder of the morning practice session.
"It's hard to see a teammate go down," Crowton said. "This is a tight group of guys, and I felt it would be best to get them in the locker room, shower and get some lunch. We'll re-focus, collect our thoughts and get back out here this afternoon."
written by BYU Athletic Media Relations
