Panthers welcome Noah Fultz back from severe injuryCumberland Gap sophomore receiver Noah Fultz (#9) is back playing with the Panthers this season after suffering a severe injury during a game last season that resulted in the amputation of his lower left leg. He was joined at midfield prior to Friday’s season opener by family members; Cumberland Gap Athletic Trainer Mara Brock and intern Jazzmin Duverney; Sarah Younce and Greg Fultz from the on-site EMS team and members of the 9 heart nursing team including Veronica King, Sara Lena, Luke Miller, Sammy Bowen, Christy White, Krystal King and Justin Baxter who all played key roles in his recovery. (Photo by Jay Compton)

Published 10:39 am Wednesday, August 27, 2025

Panthers welcome Noah Fultz back from severe injury

By Jay Compton

Cumberland Gap sophomore receiver Noah Fultz is back playing with the Panthers after suffering a devastating leg injury during a game last season. The team celebrated his recovery and return before Friday’s season opener by recognizing him and the medical staff that made his return possible.

Fultz, #9, sustained his injury during a game on Friday, September 13, 2024. Following a prompt assessment by the CGHS Sports Medicine staff, it became clear that immediate transport was necessary. Noah had suffered a knee dislocation, resulting in damage to the nerves, ligaments, and meniscus, with the most critical injury being a severed artery. This traumatic incident led to a loss of blood flow to Noah’s lower leg and foot, unfortunately resulting in muscle death.

Faced with the difficult choice between wearing a brace to support his foot while walking or opting for amputation, Noah, with the unwavering support of his family, coaches, teammates, friends, and the entire Panther Nation, chose to proceed with the amputation.

“We are profoundly honored to welcome #9 Noah Fultz back to the field for his first game, just 343 days following his injury,” the announcer read as Fultz was joined at midfield by several UT Medical Center nurses, the on-site EMS team and school athletic trainers.

“This remarkable achievement would not have been possible without the exceptional medical care provided by Cumberland Gap Athletic Trainer Mara Brock and intern Jazzmin Duverney, as well as Sarah Younce and Greg Fultz from the on-site EMS team. We also extend our gratitude to Lifestar’s Aaron Fox and the dedicated 9 heart nursing team, including Veronica King, Sara Lena, Luke Miller, Sammy Bowen, Christy White, Krystal King, and Justin Baxter,” the announcer continued. “Our heartfelt thanks go to UT Medical Center, Dr. Freeman, Dr. Smith, and the skilled team at Elevation Physical Therapy.”

Noah was fortunate to have an extraordinary nursing staff on the 9 heart unit, who not only delivered excellent medical care but also uplifted his spirits through their compassion, playing video games with him, and providing encouragement during one of the most challenging times of his life.