January 19, 2008–SEATTLE, WA–Around the country at least once a week, a young athlete collapses and dies of undetected heart troubles.

The shocking numbers prompted Seattle's Blanchett High School to screen area students before tragedy strikes.

Volunteers want to catch the ticking time bomb before it goes off.

Tenth grader Mark Vinopal was one student being tested. He needs a healthy heart to compete.

“I’m a swimmer and I need that to go the distance,” he said.

The volunteers are checking for signs that may not be so obvious.

Sixteen-year-old Nick Varrenti appeared healthy on the outside. But the junior varsity football playerhad an illness that couldn't be seen.

“My dad went to wake him up and he didn't wake up,” said Katie Varrenti, his sister.