Curtis Landers, 15, earns Pride of Australia nomination after footy tackle shatters his neck

JUST last year a footy tackle put him in hospital with a broken neck but Curtis would not stay down and is back at school, walking taller than ever.

LAST year north coast teenager Curtis Landers broke his neck in a horror footy tackle.

After being told he would spend a year in hospital he took his first steps after five weeks and was home after just three months.

Today, not only can he walk but he is back at school.

And while he’ll never play rugby league again he is back on the sidelines supporting his mates.

In recognition of his determination, integrity and dedication to getting better, the Forster 15-year-old has been nominated for a Pride of Australia Child of Courage Medal.

“There is still stiffness in my neck and numbness in my hands and I’m having some trouble with breathing in my sleep but there’s not much to complain about.”

“My family, girlfriend and friends have been amazing throughout the journey so I'm very lucky to have had them with me through it all.”

Curtis, who had been asked to play with the South Sydney Rabbitohs before his accident, said he was excited for the future and thrilled by his nomination.

“This is an opportunity I’m excited about,” he said.

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“There are some amazing nominees with incredible ­stories so to be a part of this is special. I’m proud and excited for all that is to come.”

“I would love to be able to play footy again but my rehab team have made it pretty clear that I won’t be able to.”

“I’m enjoying my golf and hopefully I am able to play cricket and touch sometime in the near future.”

“I’ve realised how lucky I am to be out of the wheelchair and walking after the seriousness of

my injury so I think I should just settle down and be grateful for what I’m able to do.”

“Despite no longer being able to play footy, I hope to still be a part of the game in some way.”

Today that involves being a water boy for the Under 16 Forster Tuncurry Hawks.

ClubsNSW CEO Anthony Ball said the not-for-profit club industry was thrilled to be part of the Pride of Australia Awards.

“There is no industry anywhere that is more involved in the everyday life of Australians than the club industry,” Mr Ball said.

“The Pride of Australia Awards are a unique chance to recognise and thank our unsung heroes so if you know someone inspiring, make sure you nominate them.”

Until July 19 you can nominate someone across 10 categories.

NOMINATE FOR PRIDE OF AUSTRALIA NOW