Pickleball AED Emergency Response: A pickleball player in Utah says quick action from friends and an automated external defibrillator (AED) saved his life after he collapsed on court earlier this year. Fred Hull, who suffered a medical emergency in St. George, later shared his story with The Dink and marked the moment with a powerful tattoo.
Emergency on the Court
On March 11, 2025, Fred Hull lost consciousness during a game at a private pickleball facility in St. George, Utah. A nearby player called 911 while two fellow players, Norm Ritchie and Casey Zimmer, began CPR. They also used the on-site AED, a device that restores heart rhythm with an electric shock.
For Fred, the AED proved to be the difference between life and death. Without it and the fast response of his friends, the outcome could have been very different.
A Tattoo With Meaning
To remember the moment, Fred Hull chose a tattoo that runs down his forearm. It shows an electrocardiogram line, the words “I’m alive with a little help from my friends,” and the date of his collapse. He submitted the tattoo to The Dink, where it stood out among other pickleball-inspired designs.
“The most important message should be to strive for AED availability at all pickleball facilities, and encourage everyone to become familiar (if not trained) with CPR. It saved my life.”(Fred Hull)
Raising Awareness in the Sport
AEDs are already common at professional pickleball events. Increasingly, recreational facilities are following suit by installing devices and making players aware of their use. Fred’s story highlights why these efforts matter and why preparation on the court can save lives.
Today, Fred has returned to playing pickleball. He often shares the court with Norm Ritchie and Casey Zimmer, the same friends who helped bring him back.
Why His Story Matters
Fred Hull’s experience is a reminder that pickleball is more than just a game. It shows the importance of safety equipment, teamwork, and quick action. His decision to share his story with The Dink has helped raise awareness for CPR training and AED access in facilities everywhere.
News in Brief: Pickleball AED Emergency Response
Fred Hull collapsed while playing pickleball in St. George, Utah, on March 11, 2025. Friends Norm Ritchie and Casey Zimmer saved him with CPR and an AED. Fred later shared his story with The Dink and now encourages facilities to provide AEDs and promote CPR training. He has since returned to play.