Football referee recovering from surgery

ZANESVILLE, Ohio – Football referee Charlie Linch is recovering from surgery after suffering a heart attack during the New Philadelphia vs. Zanesville game Friday night, according to his son, Steve Linch.

Charlie Linch collapsed to the turf following a New Philadelphia touchdown in the first quarter. Emergency Medical Technicians stationed at Sulsberger Stadium tended to Linch before rushing him to Genesis Hospital, where he underwent surgery. Zanesville Athletic Director Scott Aronhalt confirmed that Linch suffered a heart attack.

A Facebook post from Zanesville City Schools at 12:26 p.m. stated the following: “We are told that Mr. Linch was taken off the ventilator this morning and was briefly awake, interacting with those around him.  He is, however, fairly well sedated so he can rest. It is reported his heart rate is good, but that doctors are still concerned about some possible complications for him. They remain ‘cautiously optimistic.’ His family has come in from West Virginia to be with him.”

Steve Linch told WHIZ that his father was awake and “watching football” at 1:50 p.m. The younger Linch said that his family is extremely grateful for the outpouring of support they have received.

Charlie Linch has officiated football games for more than 30 years and was serving as a fill-in umpire Friday night. He also serves as a baseball umpire clinician in West Virginia.

The New Philadelphia vs. Zanesville football game will resume tonight at 7 p.m. with the Quakers attempting the extra point following their touchdown.

The Zanesville Athletic Boosters will donate half of the 50-50 raffle plus an additional $250 to Linch and his family. Additional private donations will be accepted at the home side of the Sulsberger Stadium press box throughout the evening.

The junior varsity game scheduled to take place in New Philadelphia is cancelled. “Alumni Cheer Night” has been postponed to next Friday’s home showdown with Cambridge.