A TEENAGER from Caernarfon who suffered a cardiac arrest during a basketball game has made a surprise appearance at Cheshire Phoenix.

Sam Booth, 16, had earned a place in the first-team squad this season before he fell ill - but stunned fans when he walked out pre-game with the team for the first time since his collapse.

The talented former Ysgol Brynrefail pupil, who was also part of the elite Swish academy programme in Holyhead, was playing for Phoenix U18s away at Mersey Mavericks in September when he collapsed mid-game.

Thanks to the rapid actions of coaches from both teams emergency medical staff were able to get to Sam in time.

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After seven weeks spent largely at Broadgreen and Wythenshawe hospitals for treatment - including heart surgery - Sam is now working on his rehabilitation. 

But he stunned Cheshire Phoenix fans when he stepped out on court with the team before Sunday's game against Sheffield Sharks.

Sam sat on the bench and was welcomed back to the Cheshire Phoenix team after his cardiac arrest.Sam sat on the bench and was welcomed back to the Cheshire Phoenix team after his cardiac arrest. (Image: Adam Day Photography)

When he was announced to the crowd by in-game commentator Salty Siteine the crowd erupted in cheers for the youngster, who spent the game on the bench cheering his teammates on and listening in to the tactical discussions as the Nix claimed a nailbiting one-point win.

"We were delighted to have Sam back with us on Sunday," said Phoenix General Manager James Brice. 

"It was a really special moment for him and his family to finally be back at Ellesmere Port Sports Village and the reception he received was amazing. 

"Sam caught up with the players in the locker room before the game and everyone is delighted to see him back and on the road to recovery."