An Iona student is in the hospital with a spinal injury she suffered while working as a lifeguard in California.

The Huntington Beach Fire Department does not say exactly what happened but does explain Elizabeth Lovat is in stable but serious condition.

Lovat is from Huntington Beach where she is a lifeguard, but she is also a rising senior Division 1 water polo player at Iona.

She was recognized as an All-American Athlete among other athletic awards, plus she was on the dean's list in the last year.

She is studying speech pathology at Iona and uses her American Sign Language skills to help her community.

Iona's Athletics director and head water polo coach have both released statements.

Head Coach Brian Kelly says in part, "She is loved by so many at Iona, especially by her water polo family. We are praying for her daily to have a speedy recovery."

The Huntington Beach Fire Outreach Foundation is raising money for Lovat and her family. If you would like to donate, follow this link.