The Wellington Cowboys have joined in the chorus of support for a fellow football player following a serious injury in a reserve grade match at Kennard Park on June 4.
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Dubbo CYMS’ Ryan Medley, in his first match for the season, suffered a serious neck injury during a tackle while playing for CYMS in the match against the Cowboys.
He was airlifted to Royal North Shore Hospital where he underwent surgery for damage to his spinal cord and C5 vertebrae. It will still be some time before the extent of the injuries are known but best wishes from the rugby league and wider sporting community have poured in.
Cowboys treasurer, Elise Cunynghame, said the Cowboys will donate all proceeds from their annual Round 6 auction to the Ryan Medley Appeal.
“At the end of the day anyone that takes to the field will never walk off the same whether it’s bruises or with an injury – it could happen to any one of the players who take to the field,” she said.
“The club just wants to support Ryan and his family on the long journey he’s going to have in front of him.
“With Country Rugby League we’ve got a small group so we’re just trying to support him where we can.”
On Saturday, June 17 the Cowboys will host Dubbo Macquarie Raiders at Kennard Park with league tag kicking off at 2pm.
It doubles as the club’s ‘Tackling Indigenous Smoking Round’ in partnership with WACHS TIS and Macquarie Raiders.
Following the game players and supporters are invited back to the Wellington Hotel where the club will auction off both sets of jerseys. The initial event would have seen 50 per cent of sales got to the club and 50 per cent to a nominated charity.
Local businesses have gotten on board the fundraiser in donating auction items and funds.
Some of the items include a toolbox set worth $3,600 from sponsors Regional Auto Supplies. Further items include a chainsaw, light bar, lambs, meat trays, hair products, electrical items and signed memorabilia.
Other businesses to get on board fundraising efforts are Allendale Merino, Ben O’Brien, Wellington Mowers and Chainsaws, Regional Auto Supplies, Mitchell Spradbrow, Central Butchery Wellington, Men in League, Gerry Stanley, Kierles Pharmacy, Hair By AKS, Trim Hair Studio, Lea Freight, Woolworths, and Binginbar Farm.
“Without our sponsors and the donations from people in the Wellington local and surrounding areas the auction night would not be possible,” Elise said.
“We’re overwhelmed by their generosity and support of our club and the Medley family.”
The club invites the community to attend the match against Macquarie, followed by the auction night to commence at 7.30pm.
