From Sideline Setback to State Champion: Logan’s Story

The first game of senior year was supposed to be one of celebration and promise for Logan Decker. Instead, it became a moment of shock. On his very first defensive play, Logan was tackled hard. As players piled on, his elbow popped out of place. Heading to the Emergency Department that night, Logan feared the worst, that his high school football season, and possibly his future college opportunities, were over.

As college offers were starting to come in, the uncertainty was crushing. But those fears were quickly put to rest when Logan met with Stephen Spadafore, MD, from Henry Ford Sports Medicine – Jackson. “I felt like he always kept an eye out for me and wanted me to get back on the field as much as I wanted to,” Logan shared.

The initial prognosis suggested it could take four to six weeks before he’d be game-ready again. But Logan, determined not to let his senior year slip away, worked relentlessly in collaboration with Dr. Spadafore, Henry Ford Athletic Trainer Sarah Wilhelm, and the occupational therapy team. He underwent two months of occupational therapy, three times a week. Even on practice days, Logan could be found on the sidelines, doing his “therapy homework,” focusing on strength, healing and staying connected to his teammates.

That hard work, and the unwavering support of his care team, paid off. Instead of six weeks, Logan returned to the field in just three weeks. “It was nerve-racking at first, but my confidence and strength came back quickly,” he said.

Logan went on to play the rest of the season with a stability brace, helping lead Lumen Christi to their third consecutive Division 6 MHSAA State Championship title. In the final game at Ford Field, Logan capped his high school career with a highlight-reel play, making a great catch and running it in for a touchdown.

Looking back, Logan credits his comeback to the teamwork and encouragement he received. What began as a devastating injury became a story of resilience, hope, and triumph—proof that with the right care and determination, even the toughest setbacks can turn into defining moments. “Thanks to my strong support network and the Henry Ford Sports Medicine team, I am now a tight end at Mount St. Joseph University, doing what I love.”