The tragic wrestling accident occurred on February 13 and has since left Dominic partially paralyzed.
Highlights
- Dominic Haines suffered a severe neck injury during the GHSA state wrestling tournament, leaving him partially paralyzed.
- He is currently undergoing treatment and rehabilitation, with some progress in regaining sensation.
- Dominic’s parents, Zach and Shantel Haines have been by his side throughout his recovery.
- Zach Haines continues to provide detailed updates about Dominic’s progress on his Facebook page.
- The Jefferson High School community has rallied around the family, organizing vigils, fundraisers, and a GoFundMe campaign to support his treatment.
In a devastating turn of events, Jefferson High School senior wrestler Dominic Haines suffered a severe neck injury during the Georgia High School Association (GHSA) state wrestling tournament on February 13, 2025.
The incident has left him partially paralyzed, with his parents, Zach and Shantel Haines, by his side as he begins a challenging recovery journey.
During the quarterfinal match in Macon, Georgia, Haines experienced a catastrophic injury resulting from a legal takedown move.
Assistant wrestling coach Matthew Seaman described it as a “one in a million accident,” emphasizing that the maneuver, known as a “feet to back” move, was executed within the rules.
The unexpected outcome led to a broken neck, leaving Haines without sensation below his shoulders.
Zach Haines Provides Daily Updates On Dominic’s Health On Facebook
Zach and Shantel Haines have remained steadfast at their son’s bedside, providing continuous support.
Despite the somber circumstances, Zach has been diligent in updating friends, family, and the community through Facebook posts.
In a recent update, he shared:
Dominic is out of surgery and back in his recovery room. As far as the surgery, everything went according to plan.
Facebook
In a bittersweet note, he added,
I also wanted to add, today is Shantel and I’s 18th anniversary and the second time we’ve spent it in an ICU. Shantel jokingly said “From here on out, we’re just skipping February. This just isn’t our families month.” I don’t make a habit of it, but I actually agree with her a 💯 on this one. Don’t tell her I said that. Lol.
Facebook
In other recent posts, Zach detailed both the challenges and progress in Dominic’s recovery.
He noted that while Dominic initially had no sensation below the shoulders, he has begun to regain feeling in areas such as his forearms and mid-back.
Zach candidly described the situation:
The sensations and where he’s feeling them are sporadic. He can feel some areas and not others in between. It’s very strange for someone like myself that doesn’t have a huge understanding of how the body works, but the professionals say it’s great, so I’m happy.
Facebook
The Haines family has expressed gratitude for the outpouring of support and has requested continued prayers as Dominic faces a long road to recovery.
Zach Is A Musician And A U.S. Army Veteran
Zach, a former cavalry scout in the U.S. Army, is a semi-popular musician from Gladwin, Michigan.
On Instagram, he has over 9000 followers and a decent fanbase who tune in to listen to his country-themed covers and originals.
Zach has a close and loving relationship with his wife of 18 years, Shantel Haines, who also hails from Gladwin, Michigan.
She is also active on Facebook, posting family moments and her son’s achievements and, more recently, gathering thoughts and prayers for him.
Heartbreakingly, Dominic is not the only child who was born to Zach and Shantel; the pair had a daughter named Harper, who tragically died of complications related to her diaphragmatic hernia on February 25, 2013, at just 17 days old.
The Jeffer High School Community Has Provided Extensive Support To The Haines Family
The Jefferson High School community has rallied around the Haines family during this difficult time.
Teammates, coaches, and fellow students have organized vigils and fundraisers to assist with medical expenses.
A GoFundMe campaign has been established, raising significant funds to support Dominic’s treatment and rehabilitation.
Head coach Kyle Baird reflected on the incident, stating,
It’s one of those freak things that doesn’t happen.
wsbtv.com
He emphasized the team’s commitment to supporting Dominic and his family, both emotionally and through tangible efforts.
Dominic Haines has been an integral part of Jefferson High School’s wrestling program, dedicating years to the sport.
Known for his determination and sportsmanship, he has been a role model for younger athletes.
His commitment to wrestling has earned him respect both on and off the mat.
As the community continues to support the Haines family, there is a collective hope for Dominic’s recovery and a return to the activities he loves.
Additional Information
- Dominic’s GoFundMe has raised over $60,000 as of February 18, 2025.
- A fracture between the C2 and C5 vertebrae, like Dominic’s, can take several months to a year, depending on the severity of the fracture and the individual’s overall health.
