Over the years, we have heard many struggle stories of sportspersons, and how they defied odds to become champions of the world. But Australian hockey player Matt Dawson is rewriting a struggle story, just before Paris Olympics 2024. As per a report, the player got amputated, a part of his ring finger, to be a part of the Olympics.
Dawson’s participation was in doubt when he fractured his right ring finger. And it was then the doctors gave him two options — either let the finger heal or amputate a part of it. Of course, the silver medalist from Tokyo 2020, chose the latter.
“I didn’t have much time to make the decision,” Dawson told the Seven Network. “I made the decision then I called my wife and she said, ‘I don’t want you to make a rash decision.’ But I guess I had all the information I needed to make a decision for not only playing in Paris but for life after and giving myself the best health.”
Colin Batch, the coach of the Australian Hockey team, had special words of praise for the athlete, who put so much on the line. “The best way of recovering from it was to just chop the end of the finger off,” coach Colin Batch said. “So that’s what he decided to do. It’s not something a coach can decide for a player. Full marks to Matt. Obviously, he’s really committed to playing in Paris. I’m not sure I would have done it, but he’s done it, so great.”
Australia Hockey Squad for Paris Olympics 2024
Goalkeepers: Andrew Charter
Defenders: Joshua Beltz, Matthew Dawson, Jake Harvie, Jeremy Hayward, Edward Ockenden, Corey Weyer
Midfielders: Flynn Oglivie, Lachlan Sharp, Jacob Whetton, Aran Zalewski (captain)
Forwards: Tim Brand, Thomas Craig, Blake Glovers, Tom Wickham, Ky Willott
Reserves: Johan Durst, Nathan Ephraums, Tim Howard
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