Whitehaven Rugby League Football Club captain James Newton has provided an update after being hospitalised due to a fractured neck.
The Haven incredibly managed to leave the field on his feet during the club’s victory over Halifax Panthers but once hospitalised, it became clear that he had fractured his neck.
That was confirmed by the club who had reported: “Whitehaven Rugby League can this morning provide an update on James Newton following leaving The Ortus Rec in an ambulance yesterday and spending the night in hospital.
“Newton has fractured vertebrae in his neck and remains in hospital at this time receiving specialist care but wanted to share this news with the brown, blue and gold army and thank all of the well wishers for their support so far.”
It’s a testament to how tough rugby league players are and Newton has now provided an update himself, posting on social media from his hospital bed.
His message was shared by Whitehaven, via their X profile: “Update guys basically shattered my neck .. Bi lateral C2 fracture to the vertebrae and undergone surgery for the application of halo ring and vest . I will have the halo on for around 8 weeks … . I am doing well … long road to recovery now .. thanks for all of your support.”
A C2 fracture is more commonly known as a ‘Hangman’s fracture’ and is generally a result of the hyperextension of the neck.
Per an American study from the National Library of Medicine, 85% of those who had suffered a C2 fracture, experienced a full recovery within a year.
Everyone at Serious About Rugby League is wishing James the very best in his recovery.
Yesterday evening our captain James Newton posted this update across his social media pages
“Update guys basically shattered my neck .. Bi lateral C2 fracture to the vertebrae and undergone surgery for the application of halo ring and vest . I will have the halo on for around 8… pic.twitter.com/84u7dPin6G
— Whitehaven Rugby League (@OfficialHavenRl) October 1, 2024
He is currently in the midst of a three-month testimonial after spending 11 seasons with Whitehaven, having earlier represented fellow Cumbrian side Workington and even Hull FC.
Next season, Haven will be in the same division as rivals Workington after they were relegated despite their final day victory over Halifax. Haven had struggled with financial difficulties throughout the season and saw a coaching change late on with Kyle Amor taking over to round the season out.
