By James Roach
May 19 2005

You will of all heard by now the tragic injury suffered by England U-21 Internation Matt Hamspon. An appeal has been set up by the supporters to raise money for him and his family. Please give generously.

It is with deep regret that the Rugby Football Union and Leicester Tigers announced that the Tigers prop Matt Hampson suffered a serious neck injury during an England Under-21 training session at Franklin's Gardens, Northampton, on Tuesday morning
The injury was incurred during a scrummaging session and Matt was immediately treated on the pitch by the England Under-21 medical team.

Matt was then taken by ambulance to the intensive care unit at Northampton General hospital.

His family were notified and visited the hospital. The medical teams have consulted with Matt’s parents and it was agreed that an operation to re-align the neck using traction would take place.

England Under-21 manager Pete Drewett said: “Our immediate concerns are with Matt and his family. Matt is getting the best treatment available and we aim to make a further announcement following his operation.”

Some Quotes:

"Our thoughts and best wishes go out to Matt and his family at this very difficult time.”

"Matt is a very likeable guy. He enjoys his rugby, works hard at it and his talent has already been recognised by the England Under-21 coaches.”

"His injury puts everything else in rugby into perspective”

"The England team decided they would each offer their England shirt from this Saturday's game for auction.
"We hope the money raised can in some way help Matt and his family during his recovery."

We are putting together an appeal for Matt from all supporters and especially those here on the Sportnetwork. Rugby is a community and I feel we should all pull together on this to help.

If you would like to donate to the appeal please follow the link below:

The Matt Hampson Supporters Appeal