Matt King’s, first ever paid rugby game, was a moment that would change his life – but not the way he thought it would.
The pinnacle moment of an up-and-comer’s career after an arduous training schedule was to become a professional player. He’d made it. Just 20 seconds into the game and Matt was tackled to the ground. In that moment his life was re-tracked. His neck had been broken and he was paralysed. His rugby career was over just as it had begun. What is a 17 year old to think when he’s being told the harsh reality that this accident would result in his future confined to a wheelchair?
Matt was faced with a choice: to wish his life away or build a new life and vision. “Everything changed in that split second on the pitch and my goals and aspirations altered along with it. But it didn’t change the person I am or the fact I want to make the most of my life.”
After 9 months in 3 hospitals and a long, tough journey through rehabilitation, he went back to school. He studied for his A-Levels, pushed through for a law degree, attended law school and became a solicitor. Undertaking mouth-painting and completing the New York marathon carrying the Olympic torch in 2012, Matt also received an OBE for charitable work and has written one of the most inspiring books I’ve read, detailing his experience.
His ethos was simple ‘failure was not an option’.
Tony Rae introduced me to Matt King and I see him as an embodiment of what emotional resilience looks like. Overcoming the severe mental and physical trauma that had been inflicted upon him, he has achieved more than what many will do despite the setbacks.
I am delighted Matt will be joining me on Wednesday at our talk on Emotional Resilience and our life enhancing programme ‘Power Up Your Performance’ where we will talk through the 7 Natural Powers we all have access to, demonstrated to their highest level by Matt himself.
Join us on the 3rd February at 3pm in Olympia, Theatre 10.
Martin Coburn
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