Chapel Hill, N.C. — Family members asked for prayers as a University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill swimmer remained hospitalized Saturday after suffering a health problem during practice earlier in the week.

Sophomore Allison Barnes experienced what appeared to be cardiac arrest during an afternoon workout on Tuesday. Her coaches called 911, and Barnes was taken to UNC Hospitals, where she was listed in critical condition Saturday.

"Our family continues to covet your prayers for Allison during this journey, and we hope soon to be able to speak to you with encouraging news," Keith and JoEllen Barnes, the parents of Barnes, said in a statement.

Barnes is a member of UNC's women's swimming and diving teams and earned her first varsity letter competing in distance freestyle event's during the past academic year.

Barnes' older sister, Amanda, graduated from UNC in 2008 and played on the lacrosse team.

Keith and JoEllen Barnes thanked "all of the athletic family here at UNC" – from the university chancellor and athletic director to the swimming and lacrosse head and assistant coaches – "for their continued support during this challenging time."

Her parents also thanked Dr. James Ford and Dr. Mike Contarino and other UNC nurses and doctors for their daughter's care.

Barnes is from Bel Air, Md., and graduated from C. Milton Wright High School.