Nathan Stapleton spinal injury: Sharks coach Craig Fitzgibbon calls on NRL to rally their support

Nathan Stapleton’s horror injury while playing bush footy has prompted Sharks coach Craig Fitzgibbon to issue an impassioned plea to the rest of the league.

Nathan Stapleton played 61 NRL games for the Cronulla Sharks. Picture: Brett Costello

Sharks coach Craig Fitzgibbon has called on the entire NRL to rally their support for former Cronulla representative fullback Nathan Stapleton.

In a tragic turn of events, Stapleton is in Royal North Shore Hospital having sustained a serious spinal injury playing country rugby union.

“It’s so saddening and such a shame,’’ Fitzgibbon said.

“I was at the Roosters when Stapo was there as well.

“It’s just a tragedy for Nathan and his family and whatever the Sharks can do to support them is crucial. Rugby League in general should get behind him. It’s definitely sad news and my best wishes goes to Nathan and all involved.’’

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Stapleton, 32, was playing for Boorowa against West Wyalong last Saturday week when he was caught awkwardly in a ruck. The club confirmed he “fractured his neck”.

A female nurse who attended the game as a spectator saw the accident and immediately began treating Stapleton and a defibrillator was used.

Former Sharks player Nathan Stapleton fractured his neck playing bush footy.

Cronulla’s welfare department had contacted Stapleton’s wife, Kate, to offer ongoing support. The club will also discuss avenues to assist the Stapleton family.

The Boorowa Rugby Club’s statement read: “During our game last Saturday at West Wyalong, Goldies (Golden Oldies) men‘s player Nathan Stapleton suffered a significant injury during the second half which led to the match being abandoned.

“Unfortunately during contact, Nathan fractured his neck and injured his spinal cord, requiring significant medical assistance.

“Through an incredible effort from members of each club, Nathan was given first aid until paramedics could arrive.

“Nathan has begun his recovery at hospital in Sydney, and whilst he shows improvement each day the extent of his injuries and long term impact remain unclear.

“All of our thoughts and prayers are with Nathan, his wife Kate and their family at this time.

“A special thank you to all of the Goldies family, rugby clubs and Boorowa citizens who have offered their thoughts and support.

Nathan Stapleton played several seasons for the Sharks. Picture: Brett Costello

“We will continue to support Nathan in the short and long term and we will communicate plans for this in the near future.”

Stapleton was taken to West Wyalong District Hospital by ambulance before being transferred later that night to Royal Prince Alfred, Camperdown.

He has since been moved to the spinal unit at Royal North Shore Hospital in St Leonards.

Stapleton lives with his young family in Boorowa with locals claiming the accident has “shaken” the tightly-knit town with a population of just 1600 people.

The Sharks were made aware of Stapleton’s horrific injury on Tuesday night.

Stapleton represented the Prime Minister’s XIII in 2012 before enjoying a short stint at the Sydney Roosters. He shifted to London Broncos in 2016.

In a 2014 NRL game, Stapleton scored four tries for Cronulla against New Zealand Warriors at Shark Park.