Doctors said in hindsight Jack was lucky not to die. But after the tackle that broke his neck as a 25-year-old playing premier rugby for Hinuera in 2006, he carried on playing. The physio told him it was a strain. Several weeks later he was injured again. He had no balance and couldn’t move his arm, but still a diagnosis was missed. It was only months later that he was finally sent for surgery. His neck was fused and his arm amputated.  

Despite being left in constant pain, Jack grits his teeth to rack up impressive sporting accomplishments. He has won gold in triathlon and made the national development squad for paracycling, setting a national record in 2020. Coaching paracycling and rugby – at various levels and across different codes – brings him great fulfillment in building lasting relationships and mentoring players who have gone on to professional success. He’s also the very proud stay-at-home dad of four kids. Through a life marked by tragedies, Jack digs deep to keep going and he’s open about the challenges, sharing his lessons with others through motivational speaking. He’s a silver linings kind of a person; despite everything, he says, losing his arm has opened doors.  

Partner Jo is his rock and he’s grateful to his parents and sister for their support, as well as his local rugby community which fundraised after his injury. Jack appreciates the Rugby Foundation’s help with paracycling equipment, values the fellowship of other members and cherishes priceless memories of attending rugby matches with his son. 

Article added: Wednesday 06 September 2023