An automatic external defibrillators was the life-saving difference for a Cannon Falls athlete.

At 16 years old, Michael Spillman was the picture of health, until eight weeks ago during a pick-up basketball game at Cannon Falls High School.

"I just collapsed on the floor and went into cardiac arrest," Michael said.

Michael nearly died.

"We talked to the doctors at Children's Hospital right away," said Gary Spillman, Michael's father. "They said it was a miracle."

That miracle came in the form of an automatic external defibrillator the school installed outside the gym.

"I wouldn't be here without it," Michael said.

Luckily for Micheal, coaches and teammates started CPR while a police officer used the AED to literally shock Michael back to life.

Just this past year, five student athletes have died or nearly died because of sudden cardiac arrest. Now the Minnesota State High School Athletic League is pushing for AEDs near every gym and athletic field. The AEDs cost about $2,000 each.

The League's push is in conjunction with this weekend's MSHSL Prep Bowl at the Metrodome.

"It saved a kid's life and there's nothing that you could put a price tag on," said Cannon Falls Superintendent Todd Sesker. "I would encourage any school, elementary or high school to have an AED in a school."

Michael now wears a permanent pacemaker and is hoping to get his doctor's permission to play baseball this spring.

Watch the MSHSL Prep Bowl on Channel 45. For a schedule click here.