In 1986, 28-year-old Keith was working hard and playing hard. On May 3 he lined up as halfback for Alexandra A, playing for the Philip Cowie Memorial Shield against Upper Clutha. Five minutes from full time his team were comfortably ahead, when Keith wound up at the bottom of a ruck. His neck cracked, and though he instantly knew it was serious, he felt quite calm. 

Later, after the harsh and permanent reality had set in, the storm clouds rolled in. Keith’s marriage broke up, his kids moved away and hopelessness struck hard. From despair, though, Keith found a new purpose. He started receiving counselling and became so absorbed in the reading material he was given that he decided to study psychology. He moved to Dunedin – back to his kids – gained his degree and went on to counsel others going through similarly difficult adjustments. Now, he continues to give voluntary counselling and offers his time at the local Citizens Advice Bureau. He keeps active at the gym, loves to travel and enjoys going out to concerts, movies and sporting events – he’s a fixture in the Australian Open crowd and won’t turn down a rugby game or the races either.  

Keith’s experience gives him a very real appreciation of the value of counselling, which he continues to receive with the Rugby Foundation’s help. Though he’s proud of his independence, as he reaches retirement, he’s glad to know the foundation will be there to help however he needs. 

Article added: Wednesday 06 September 2023