Two days before camp began for the Eagles boys cross country team, they and the entire Pella Christian community received heartbreaking news. 

Junior Ryan Natelborg, one of the anchors for the Eagles last year when they made it to State for the first time since 2010, was seriously injured in a swimming accident while on vacation in Wisconsin on July 30th. Ryan lost consciousness briefly, and upon regaining consciousness, was unable to use his arms or legs. After being airlifted to a hospital in Madison, an MRI indicated that he had a serious spinal injury. Ryan underwent surgery that night that went well, and while he has taken small steps in the recovery process, a long journey is still before him. While Ryan won’t be able to join the Eagles on the cross country course, head coach Mike Buchheit said Ryan is absolutely a part of the team and that he looks forward to seeing him.

“I know he misses the running, and his family misses the running, and in a lot of ways you miss the normal things that you were doing. Ryan was very prepared for this season and had his bag packed and ready for the cross country season to happen, but he’s still part of this team and we’re going to do everything we can to wrap our team around him. We’ve got a run for Ryan theme, and he’s been a true warrior in terms of how he’s been competing to make some little things really happen in his favor since this accident and at some point, I’m sure I’ll get a chance to talk to Ryan directly and give that kid a hug. But yeah, you develop a close relationship.” 

Eagles Athletic Director Dan Branderhorst added that they are thinking of Ryan and sending him well wishes.

“Our thoughts and prayers are with Ryan and the Natelborg family. They are such a great family and Ryan is a leader for that, that team and that program. And so, Ryan, if you hear this by chance, we’re thinking of you, we’re praying for you, and we wish you the best.”

To follow along with Ryan’s journey, visit his CaringBridge site linked here. A GoFundMe page has also been set up to help the family with medical expenses and can be found at the link here.