CHAD’S STORY
A legacy still growing.
The Chad Barcia Athlete Awareness Foundation honors a young athlete by helping care for the athletes who follow.
REMEMBERING CHAD
The person at the heart of our mission.
Before there was a foundation, there was Chad—a young athlete whose life continues to connect his family and community.
Chad died from sudden cardiac arrest. His parents created a foundation in his honor, turning remembrance into support for other young athletes.
BIOGRAPHY
Chad Barcia was born in New Orleans and spent 12 years living in Metairie. After attending Holy Name of Jesus Grammar School, he went on to De La Salle High School, where he played football and rugby and competed in track and field. He also participated in campus ministry and served as a Eucharistic minister.
His dedication earned him All-District First Team and All-State Second Team honors in football in 2004. Division I colleges were taking notice of his athletic ability. His family remembers more than his accomplishments: Chad was cheerful, quick to smile, and always ready to lend a hand.
On March 29, 2005, Chad collapsed during a rugby match and died from sudden cardiac arrest. He was 17 years old and had no known medical problems or warning symptoms.
Chad’s life continues to inspire our work: helping families understand cardiac risks and helping schools prepare to respond.
REMEMBERING CHAD
Continuing the legacy.
After losing their youngest son, A. J. and Nancy Barcia turned their grief into a commitment to help protect other students. In June 2005, they founded the Chad Barcia Athlete Awareness Foundation.
Their advocacy has included membership in Parent Heart Watch and the Hypertrophic Cardiomyopathy Association. Nancy has shared Chad’s story with schools, parent organizations, sports clubs, school boards, city councils, school nurses, and community groups.
Through these conversations and the foundation’s work, they continue to bring attention to heart health screening, AED access, and student athlete safety.
OUR MISSION TODAY
Remembering through doing.
01
Athlete screening
Support more in-depth screening for students participating in athletics.
02
AED donations
Equipping schools and athletic communities with automated external defibrillators.
03
Protective equipment
Providing equipment that helps young athletes participate with greater protection.
Help carry Chad’s legacy forward.
Support screening, AED donations, and protective equipment for young athletes.