The town of Bethpage, New York, located in Nassau County on Long Island, is mourning after the sudden death of 17-year-old Connor Kasin, a high school senior who collapsed during a charity hockey game at the Town of Oyster Bay Ice Skating Center on Saturday night, November 30, 2024. Despite immediate efforts to save him, Kasin was pronounced dead shortly after being transported to a local hospital.
The game was part of a fundraiser benefiting the Sabrina Navaretta Foundation, established to support families coping with the loss of children. Navaretta, a Syosset High School graduate, died in a car accident in 2023. Kasin’s tragic passing has added a heartbreaking layer to the foundation’s mission.
Kasin, a defenseman for Massapequa High School and a standout player for the Sharks Elite Travel Team, was described by those who knew him as a beacon of positivity and determination. His coach, Jeff Tempone, described his death as a devastating loss, emphasizing how deeply he loved the game and how special he was as a player. Tempone highlighted Kasin’s physical fitness, noting he was likely in the best shape on the team. He praised Kasin as a highly coachable player who consistently encouraged his teammates.
The 6-foot-2, 195-pound athlete had a bright future, with aspirations of playing hockey at the collegiate level. His visibly shaken teammates shared stories of his infectious energy and how he always encouraged others to do their best.
The incident occurred during an intermission, stunning the crowd that had gathered for an evening meant to celebrate community and resilience. Spectators described a harrowing scene as bystanders and medics worked frantically to revive the young player. The Nassau County Police Department has stated that no foul play is suspected, and the cause of the medical episode remains under investigation.
William Brennan, superintendent of Massapequa Public Schools, called the event a “sudden and devastating loss” in a letter to the community. The school district has made grief counselors available to support students, staff, and families grappling with the tragedy. “He had a way of bringing light and joy to those around him, and his absence will be felt deeply by all of us,” the superintendent wrote.
In honor of Kasin, the New York Islanders High School Hockey League canceled all Sunday games. The Town of Oyster Bay lowered its flags to half-staff, and a makeshift memorial of flowers and hockey sticks began to form outside the ice rink.
