Friends Rally Around Football Star on Life Support

A standout wide receiver and kickoff returner for the Pacifica Islanders was shot in the Bayview Hunters Point neighborhood of San Francisco at about noon on Thursday, May 26.

Teammates and friends are rallying around David Henderson, who is currently on life support at San Francisco General Hospital. His spinal cord was severed by one of the bullets, said Brian Martinez, co-owner and a coach of the Islanders. A fundraiser to support Henderson's family will be held on June 25.

"The team is fairly devastated right now," said Martinez. "David had a great attitude. He lived and breathed football. He showed up early to practice and always had a smile and great attitude on the field; he was a true leader."

Henderson is currently leading the Northern California Football League (NCFL) in kickoff returns with an average of 45 yards per return and one touch down. The Islanders are currently ranked no. 1 in their division with 8 wins and 1 loss. 

"David is one of the best players at this level, one of the most explosive," Tom Piccolotti, co-owner and another coach of the Islanders, said. "I hope this inspires other players to not take their time on the field for granted and to work hard. He has a very magnetic personality and passion for football, and it showed on the field."

The Islanders' game, and league conference game, on June 25 at 2p.m. at will be a fundraiser for Henderson and his family. Tickets are $10 for all ages 12 and over, $5 for 6 to 11, free for younger fans. If you would like more information on how you can help the Henderson family, go here.