FOX SPORTS
May 28, 2014
Nathan Charles is the best story in Australian sport.
In an era where too many of our athletes are as notable for their off-field infractions as their on-field exploits, Charles’ Wallabies call-up provides a timely reminder of sport’s power to inspire and uplift.
Charles suffers from cystic fibrosis. He is the only professional contact sport athlete in the world to play with the condition. And if his current form holds, he could well line-up for his Test debut after being selected alongside Stephen Moore and Tatafu Polota-Nau as hookers in Ewen McKenzie’s initial 32-man Wallabies squad to face France.
It’s an incredible story. And it’s about to get even better.
Here are five reasons why Aussies should celebrate Charles’ incredible rise.
The Force are flying, and so is Charles
Western Force are enjoying their best ever Super Rugby season, having achieved their season goal of eight victories in the weekend’s win over the Lions. Charles has played in all 12 of the Force’s games, averaging 69 minutes a match.
He’s avoided the dreaded post-season nudey-run with a try in round five while a solid set-piece has seen the Force control their scrum and lineout ball – a key reason behind their success this season.
And where once the Force would have been tipped to receive an absolute hiding from the Crusaders this weekend, they now head to Christchurch with plenty of respect and the very real chance of an upset victory.
Charity
Charles inspires millions of people all over the world every time he takes to the field, but he also chips in with plenty of charity work when his schedule allows.
The 25-year-old has been an ambassador for Cystic Fibrosis Australia since 2010 and also works with the 65 Roses Challenge, which raises awareness and funds for those affected by cystic fibrosis in Australia.
You can learn more about both at his webpage nathancharles.com.au
Return from injury
If managing cystic fibrosis with up to 28 tablets a day isn’t enough, Charles last year suffered every footballer’s worst nightmare – an ACL injury.
Just over a month into last year’s Super Rugby season, the Force hooker ruptured the ACL in his right knee and missed the remainder of the year to complete his recovery.
But unlike other players who often need a year back in the game before they return to their best, Charles hasn’t missed a beat – leading to a maiden Wallabies call-up.
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