'Who We Play For': Nonprofit raises money to prevent sudden cardiac death in young athletes

MERRITT ISLAND, Fla. - Rafe Maccorone was 15-years-old when he collapsed at soccer practice in 2007. He died a day later from sudden cardiac arrest – the result of a heart condition his parents knew nothing about.

"Had no clue about sudden cardiac arrest. Had never crossed my mind. Here he was a 15-year-old, great athlete and passed all of his school sports physicals," Rafe’s father, Ralph Maccarone, told FOX 35.

Soon after Maccarone’s death, his friends and former teammates started the "Who We Play For" nonprofit organization. Their goal is to eliminate preventable sudden cardiac death in young athletes through affordable heart screenings.

Money raised from Friday night’s soccer match goes directly to the cause. 

"It’s become a tradition. It’s about celebrating the game, getting athletes together around town and just remembering those times for a lot of us," Rafe’s friend, Trey Collins said.

Even though Rafe is no longer here, his memory lives on at Merritt Island High School. His lasting legacy – helping thousands of young athletes just like him.

"We were afraid that after Rafe passed away he would be forgotten. But, his friends have rallied around our family and given us so much support over the years," Ralph Maccarone said.

"Who We Play For" says it has raised more than $100,000 since its inception.