Stoneman Douglas alum Blake Israel — son of Broward Sheriff Scott Israel — scores OT goal two days after Parkland shooting, giving PBA first
The Stoneman Douglas community has experienced unthinkable heartache in the wake of Wednesday’s deadly school shooting, but a lacrosse alum gave Eagle fans something to cheer about late Friday night.
Stoneman Douglas graduate Blake Israel — the son of Broward County Sheriff Scott Israel and now a sophomore at Palm Beach Atlantic — scored the game-winning goal versus Montevallo to give the Sailfish their first NCAA victory in school history.
“It’s really emotional with everything back home,” Israel said. “I dedicated this game to everyone back home. All my teammates came up to me before the game and said ‘We’re playing for you’. It’s so emotional to have the game-winning goal.”
The midfielder’s overtime goal helped Palm Beach Atlantic top Montevallo 10-9 in a contest played in Pensacola. The West Palm Beach private school is in the midst of its first season as an NCAA Division II member.
Israel — a Sun Sentinel All-County selection in high school — said the past few days have been incredibly emotional. In Wednesday’s shooting, 17 people were killed and 16 were injured.
Among the victims Israel knew was his former football coach — assistant Aaron Feis, who died protecting students.
Israel’s dad has been through an especially difficult week as Broward County Sheriff.
Blake’s girlfriend, who was at the game, immediately texted Scott after the goal and Blake talked to him after the game.
“I called my dad right after and he was so proud for me,” Israel said. “He knows I played for Douglas tonight.”
Just two days after the horrific tragedy, Israel put together one of the best games he’s ever played, scoring three goals in the win.
“It truly is miracle [having this type of game right after the shooting],” Israel said. “I don’t think I’ve ever had a hat trick and a game-winning goal in my career. It’s a miracle for it to happen like this.
“We really needed it and maybe it can boost the morale of the community a little bit and that’s all I care about.”
wdusenbury@sun-sentinel.com; On Twitter @dusereport
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