Joel Dark: Go Fund Me for Newcastle rugby league player has raised thousands
The cousin of Sydney Roosters captain Boyd Cordner remains in a critical condition after collapsing on debut for Central Newcastle in first grade on Sunday. His friends have put together a Go Fund Me page which raised thousands.
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Organisers of a Go Fund Me page have been “humbled” by the love and support shown for a young footballer who collapsed during a rugby league game in Newcastle on the weekend.
Joel Dark - the cousin of Sydney Roosters captain Boyd Cordner - was making his debut for Central Newcastle in first grade against Nelson Bay at St John oval in Charlestown on Sunday when he suffered a head knock.
The 21-year-old from Taree received treatment at the ground before being transported to John Hunter Hospital where he underwent emergency brain surgery. He is currently in a critical condition.
Lifelong friends of Joel and the Dark family, Paul Worboys and Chris Corcoran, set up a Go Fund Me Page in a bid to help out the family.
“All of Joel’s family and friends are undoubtedly going to have a long road ahead of them caring for Joel at this time,” the fundraising page said.
“We’d like to raise as much as possible to help cover some of the out of pocket expenses and even though we know that Joel’s family wouldn’t want a bar of it, these are uncertain times and it’s important for them to know that we are here if they need us.
“Keep fighting Squid #allforjoel.”
As of 5pm Thursday afternoon, the total was just shy of its $100,000 target, with more than 900 donors adding to the cause.
The biggest donation of $2,000 coming from an anonymous donor, with Central Newcastle Football Club and Central Leagues Club each pitching in $1500.
The Old Bar Pirates RLFC juniors and seniors also donated $250 each.
The overwhelming support sparking a massive thank you from the organisers.
“To everyone who has sent their love and support to Joel and his family, it is so humbling to see all the love shown on Joel’s GFM page,” it read.
“We sincerely appreciate everyone helping, donating and spreading the love for Joel and his family.”
Following the accident, Cordner was granted an exemption to leave the Roosters’ COVID bubble to head to Newcastle to be with family and support his cousin.
It’s expected the captain will be back for Saturday’s clash with the Newcastle Knights at the SGC.
NSW Rugby League are investigating the incident.