Weber State back Havili suffered rare stroke, doctors say

OGDEN — After suffering a rare form of stroke in practice on Monday, Weber State running back Sione Havili doesn't think he'll be suiting up for the Wildcats any time soon.

Havili said doctors informed him Wednesday he had experienced a stroke, resulting in the majority loss of sight in his left eye. Havili said this discovery came as a surprise to doctors because his body is in such great shape.

"It's a rare form of stroke that usually happens to people over the age of 65," Havili said. "Right now they are trying to pinpoint the blockage. They think it may be the main artery leading to my brain or eye."

The 6-foot-3, 260-pound running back said he couldn't remember exactly when his sight started to get hazy, but by the end of Monday's practice, vision in his left eye was gray and progressively getting worse. Doctors haven't been able to tell him yet if it would return or not.

Havili said he would continue to be hospitalized to ensure the prevention of further damage. He said he could remain in the hospital for days or weeks. Doctors will know more in another day or two after more tests.

This strange eye problem couldn't have come at a worse time for the Weber State football player, who had just started classes. The Wildcats were also less than a week from playing their first game.

"It's obviously frustrating. I've taken steps to be where I am and help the team. But in the bigger picture, football isn't as important as I thought," Havili said. "Still, I feel a sense of loyalty to the team and program. I'm willing to help the team on or off the field, but it's too early to count me out."

Besides the doctors and specialists, Havili has been under a close watch by WSU coach Ron McBride, who has been calling hourly for updates.

"Mac has been great. He's always been like that," Havili said.

McBride said everyone is concerned for Havili.

"He'll be out for awhile. The most important thing right now is to make sure everything is OK. Football takes a secondary place (right now)," McBride said.