Ambassadors

Matt Hampson

Matt became the first RPA Benevolent Fund Ambassador in 2009.

In March 2005, Leicester Tigers Academy and England U21 player Matt Hampson was training with the U21's when he suffered a dislocation in his neck which trapped his spinal cord. It has left him paralyzed from the neck down, but more determined than ever from the neck up.

The RPA Benevolent Fund supported Matt throughout the 18 months he spent at Stoke Mandeville following his injury and since his return home, assisting with medical costs and equipment at his specially renovated home in Oakham.

Matt was awarded the RPA Blyth Spirit Award in 2006, and in 2009 he became the first RPA Benevolent Fund Ambassador. Without question, Matt is an incredible young man. He is an Inspiration and motivation to everyone who knows his story. It seems like nothing is too big a challenge for Hambo and with his determination and a little luck, the world really is still very much at his feet.

Matt is currently taking on different roles as he tries to regain his independence. He is now writing a column for the Leicester Mercury's Sporting Green, helps out with coaching at Oakham rugby club and he hopes to one day contribute heavily to spinal research.

"Rugby is the best team sport in the world, I don't feel any bitterness. Why would I? I've got fantastic friends from the sport as have my family. Rugby is not just a sport, it's a way of life- and you don't really know that until you have played."

Matt Hampson

More about Matt Hampson

Find out more about Matt's current fundraising event, Walk4Matt
Find out about the Matt Hampson Six Nations Dinner
Find out more about Matt on his own website, at http://www.matthampson.co.uk/