East Perth footballer Beau Chatley has undergone emergency surgery after suffering serious damage to his neck and spine during a West Australian Football League match at the weekend.
There are fears the 21-year-old has suffered permanent spinal injuries after a clash in which he landed on the back of his head and was unable to move after damaging vertebrae and his spine during a reserves match against West Perth in suburban Leederville.
He was taken off the field on a stretcher and an ambulance took him to Royal Perth Hospital where a specialist spinal surgery team was available.
"Beau is still in the intensive care unit in a serious but stable condition," a club spokesman said.
"He was taken off the respirator last night and is breathing unassisted.
News that makes sense
Your trusted source for staying up-to-date with the world around you. Get free daily news updates and analysis, straight to your inbox.
"This morning Beau asked for and ate food for the first time since the incident. There has also been slight movement in his right hand."
The WAFL Match Review Panel has referred West Perth player Mitchell Antonio, who tackled Chatley, to the WAFL Tribunal for careless conduct.
The tribunal hearing will be closed but the outcome will be released immediately after.
"The thoughts of everyone at the WAFL remain with Beau and we wish him a full and speedy recovery," WAFL general manager Steve Hargrave said.
