Former NRL star Alex McKinnon, who was left paralysed after a devastating on-field accident in 2014, faced unexpected insensitivity from his former club, the Newcastle Knights, during a recent match against the Melbourne Storm. As McKinnon watched the Knights suffer their 11th loss of the season, he was astonishingly required to pay for his own general admission ticket, according to reports by News Corp.
The incident occurred at McDonald Jones Stadium, where the Knights chose the same game to promote a spinal support organisation, Stronger Together, without involving McKinnon in the initiative. This decision has sparked outrage among fans who view the timing as highly insensitive, given McKinnon’s history with the club and his personal journey of resilience.
Background of a Sporting Tragedy
McKinnon’s life changed forever during a match against the Melbourne Storm in 2014 when he fractured his C4 and C5 vertebrae in a horror tackle. Having played 49 NRL games, McKinnon immediately realized the severity of his injury. In an interview with ABC journalist Stan Grant in 2020, he recounted the moment:
‘I knew straight away… I remember hearing the noise, I remember trying to move but not being able to.’
Five days after the tackle, McKinnon received the devastating news that he would likely never walk again. This tragic event marked one of the most shocking incidents in Australian sporting history, leading McKinnon to a path of personal and professional transformation.
Professional and Personal Resilience
Despite the challenges, McKinnon has made significant strides in his career and personal life. Last month, he took a pivotal step forward by joining Alike Health as Head of Growth and Partnerships. Previously serving as a Lived Experience Consultant, McKinnon now offers Psychosocial Recovery coaching, leveraging his background in Psychological Science and professional sport to support those with psychosocial disabilities.
Alike Health praised McKinnon’s unique qualifications, stating on Instagram:
‘With a background in Psychological Science, professional sport, and a lived experience of resilience and change, Alex brings genuine understanding and practical support to those navigating psychosocial disability.’
In addition to his role at Alike Health, McKinnon announced his plans to pursue a Master of Business Administration (MBA) at the University of Newcastle, having already obtained a Bachelor’s Degree in Psychology.
Club Dynamics and Future Prospects
The Newcastle Knights’ treatment of McKinnon comes amid reports of internal turmoil, with speculations about coach Adam O’Brien’s potential departure and star player Kalyn Ponga’s interest in switching to rugby union. The club’s decision not to involve McKinnon in the Stronger Together initiative has added to the perception of insensitivity and poor management.
Meanwhile, McKinnon’s personal life has seen positive developments. After separating from his wife Teigan Power in 2022, McKinnon has found new love with Lily Malone. The couple reportedly began dating while McKinnon was studying at university, marking a new chapter in his life.
Looking Ahead
As McKinnon continues to build his career and personal life, the recent incident with the Newcastle Knights serves as a reminder of the challenges faced by athletes transitioning from sports to new ventures. His story of resilience and determination continues to inspire many, highlighting the importance of support and understanding for individuals overcoming adversity.
The Newcastle Knights’ actions have sparked a conversation about the responsibilities of sports clubs to their former players, particularly those who have suffered life-altering injuries. As McKinnon moves forward, his journey remains a powerful testament to the human spirit’s capacity to overcome and thrive.
