The NRL unveiled plans on Wednesday to provide a job for life for Newcastle player Alex McKinnon as part of a five-point plan to support him during his recovery from severe spinal injuries.
The Knights’ forward revealed over the weekend he was getting more movement in his arms and had feeling in his legs four weeks after suffering his injuries in a tackle.
A special foundation will be set up to raise funds for McKinnon, starting with a “Rise for Alex” round 19 of the premiership from July 18 with a range of family activities and promotions.
CEO Dave Smith said the NRL and the Knights were determined to stick by Alex and that commitment included a job in the game for as long as Alex wished.
Smith said setting a career path for Alex was part of a package of measures to provide him with financial and career assistance over the long term.
“The best sight of the season was Alex turning up to ANZ Stadium to watch his mates play for the Knights last weekend.
“His spirit and determination are an inspiration for all of us.
“The NRL would be honoured if Alex wanted to channel that spirit into a career in our game and the offer is on the table for life.”
The NRL will work with the Knights, the Rugby League Players’ Association, Men of League and other members of the league family to find a job which Alex is keen to pursue.
“The NRL will dedicate funds to a research project associated with spinal injury,” Smith said.
Smith said the NRL would work with Newcastle, other clubs and broadcast partners on the Rise for Alex round events in coming weeks.
Options include holding two concerts (one in Sydney and the other in Newcastle), games and activities for families at selected matches, junior football fundraising activities and auctions. It is also possible that a telethon will be held to raise funds.
Smith said the NRL was also looking at establishing a game-wide foundation to provide financial assistance to players severely and permanently injured in rugby league.
“It is clear, on those rare occasions when there is a serious injury in our game, that the fans and supporters want to do their bit to help out,” he said.
“We want to explore all avenues to do this and it all starts with Alex.”
McKinnon expects to remain in hospital for two more months before transferring to a rehabilitation centre to continue his recovery.
In further good news around McKinnon, the Knights announced they would be renewing his contract beyond October 31 this year.
Full release here:
“The Newcastle Knights today announced it would extend Alex McKinnon’s player contract beyond 31 October this year.
The Club and McKinnon were in the midst of finalising a contract extension prior to the young forward’s injury in round three.
CEO Matt Gidley said the Knights would honour its contract offer, with McKinnon guaranteed employment at the club. The details of his employment will be discussed with McKinnon when he is ready.
“Alex is a wonderful talent on the field and a better Clubman off the field,” Gidley said.
“While we remain hopeful Alex will make a full recovery, we are pleased to extend his contract at the Newcastle Knights because there is no doubt he’ll be a valuable employee.”
The NRL also announced today Alex would be offered a job for life, which will take effect once his Newcastle agreement is completed.
“I appreciate both the Knights and NRL’s support at this time,” McKinnon said.
“As I have said before, I am completely overwhelmed by all of the support I have received and to now have my future secured by the game, is really humbling.”
NRL CEO Dave Smith applauded the Club for honouring McKinnon’s new contract.
“Alex remains an inspiration for the game and for the rest of the team so this is a sound decision,” he said.
“His contract will be exempt from the salary cap and I think everyone will be delighted to have him in our game while he recovers.”
In addition to McKinnon’s job for life, the NRL has plans for a fundraising ‘Rise for Alex’ round, with details as follows:
· A Foundation will be set up to raise funds for Alex to help him through his recovery.
· There will be a “Rise for Alex” round of the Telstra Premiership (Round 19 which begins on 18 July).
· It promises to be one of the biggest rounds the NRL has ever seen with a range of family activities and promotions to raise funds for Alex’s Foundation.
· The fundraising round has the backing of the NRL’s broadcast partners – Nine Network, FOX Sports, 2GB and Triple M.
· The NRL will dedicate funds to a research project associated with spinal injury.”
With AAP
Barry O'
Guest
Great to see the NRL and the Knights will support Alex ...but a job for the rest of his life ? and maybe even a Telethon ? Is this just for Alex or ALL the other young men and women who have found themselves in the same situation through no fault of there own ? Have we all forgotten the Labor's "over promise" of .....With our NDIS and NIIS you will be looked after for the rest of your life. If you ever get back into gov't we will hold you to that Julia, Bill and Jenny.
Normyzee
Roar Rookie
I had some thoughts on how the game should help but this offer exceeded my expectations. The game should never abandon him. Support him and keep him involved. Well done!
Meesta Cool
Guest
At last the NRL can see past that stupid Salary Cap, What a great thing that Alex can continue in the Sport he loved albeit not playing and what a breath of fresh air that His club can give him financial support without it affecting their salary cap. Here's hoping that Alex's improvement continues!. and thanks Mr Smith and Co for being able to work outside the bubble!.
Ur kidding
Guest
Im tipping him to win the dally m,or they will rename it the alex m.he will eventually end up with david smiths job
Crosscoder
Roar Guru
Great decision by Smith & Co. Alex has shown all the ingredients of being a champion bloke with a champion heart and a positive approach ,that perhaps we could all learn from.He deserves all the spport he can muster,and the NRL guaranteeing him a job for life ,will boost his dogged deternination to even greater heights. Good stuff.
Shadow
Roar Rookie
With qualities like that, theres much that Alex can do for the Knights and the NRL. Its by no means simply a 'sympathy contract'
Shadow
Roar Rookie
I didn't know much about Alex McKinnon before his accident. After the injury, Knights players, Wayne Bennett and a host of people came forward saying what a great bloke he was -which tends to happen regardless when these sorts of things occur. But watching that interview was incredibly moving and you can see just what a strong, inspirational and humble man he is.
Dogs Of War
Roar Guru
Imagine if they went, well he is covered by insurance, so good luck mate, your on your own. Damage control?!?!? You couldn't control the amount of damage that would occur.
Dogs Of War
Roar Guru
Mate, having been in a similar situation, being upbeat is the best bet. When the doctors say you will never, I swear I had never before felt such desire to prove them wrong, because I believed I could be so much more. He will be an asset to others going through similar situations in hospital who don't believe they can, and Alex can be living proof that as long as you have a go, things may improve, though it takes time and hard work, you can't give up.
Andy
Guest
Great news. I couldn't believe how upbeat he was in that interview, definitely will be an asset to the Knights or NRL.
jameswm
Guest
Awesome news to hear he has feeling back in is legs. I could see his arm movement when he met up with his teammates. I'm in two minds though about the NRL initiative. Of course it's good for Alex to be supported, but there does seem to be a rather large element of damage control involved.
eagleJack
Guest
Great initiative by the NRL and a nice touch by the Knights to renew Alex's contract with the club. The guy is truly an inspiration. Not so much because of what happened to him. But all the stories surrounding Alex of his actions for others prior to his injury. A selfless character who always put friends/family/teammates ahead of his own needs. Not many such people around in this world anymore.