Wichita, Kansas – In the wake of the devastating crash at the Stryker Sports Complex that killed a six‑year‑old boy and a 35‑year‑old man from McPherson, local organizations are rallying to provide emotional care for those affected. COMCARE, a regional mental‑health nonprofit, has deployed a dedicated support team to the complex to assist athletes, parents and spectators as the soccer season returns.
Community response and pause for healing
Jorge De La Torre, president of the Wichita Surf Soccer Club, acknowledged the lasting impact of the tragedy. “It’s going to be different as we get back on the field. We all understand that,” he said, emphasizing the need for compassion and patience.
In response, the club halted play for two days after the weekend of the incident, giving teams, coaches and families time to rest and seek professional help. The pause was intended to prevent further emotional strain and to allow the community to process the loss.
COMCARE’s on‑site services
COMCARE’s Executive Director, Michelle Calvert, explained the organization’s approach: “It can be really hard to go to the scene of a trauma, and we want to make sure people feel safe and that there are other people around them who can support them at any time.” The team will be stationed at the Stryker Sports Complex each evening from 5:30 p.m. to 10:00 p.m. through Wednesday, offering confidential counseling for both adults and children.
Calvert encouraged attendees to “feel your feelings and take care of yourself,” suggesting that stepping away from social media and news coverage can be an important part of the healing process.
Solidarity with the McPherson community
Soccer teams throughout the week are planning gestures of support for the McPherson FC family. De La Torre asked fans to wear red in solidarity, saying, “We want to put our arms around that community.” The visible show of unity aims to reinforce the shared grief and collective resilience of the region.
Why mental‑health resources matter
Traumatic events such as this crash can have lasting psychological effects, especially on children who may struggle to process loss and fear. Providing immediate, accessible counseling helps mitigate long‑term mental‑health challenges and reinforces the community’s commitment to caring for its most vulnerable members.
Local leaders have praised COMCARE’s rapid response, noting that the organization’s presence aligns with Wichita’s broader emphasis on family well‑being and faith‑based community support. By offering a safe space for dialogue, the program underscores the city’s dedication to nurturing strong, healthy families.
Looking ahead
As the next round of games approaches, coaches and parents are reminded to stay vigilant for signs of distress among players. The mental‑health team will remain on site until the end of the week, and families are encouraged to reach out early if they notice anxiety, withdrawal, or other concerning behaviors.
For more information about COMCARE’s services or to schedule a private session, residents can contact the organization directly through its website or by calling the hotline listed at the complex.
Original reporting: KWCH 12 (Gray) – local — read the source article.
