Rugby community rallies to support Mike Ballard Foundation

This content was originally posted in 7DAYS UAE website at: Rugby community rallies to support Mike Ballard Foundation The Gulf rugby community will come together this weekend to raise money and show their support for former Abu Dhabi Harlequins player Mike Ballard. The American suffered a severe spinal cord injury in April last year while representing the Quins in the West Asian Club Championship Final. Two serious operations helped fuse his spine back together but he had lost feeling in his legs. After moving back to the States to continue his rehabilitation, Ballard has decided to return to the UAE. “Mike has made what can only be described as phenomenal progress in his rehabilitation,” said Winston Cowie, player/coach of the Mike Ballard Foundation Conquistadors 7s. “He has become increasingly mobile and independent, and has made what is a courageous call to return to Abu Dhabi to live and work, taking up a place at his old school, the New England Centre for Children with Autism, where his teaching greatly inspired the Autistic children and their families.” In support of Ballard’s return to the UAE capital, a host of rugby stars from the region have come together to represent the side. “We had guys queuing up to play and support Mike,” said Cowie. “It’s going to be great playing with some of the guys that in the past we used to have some battles with. Most of the major teams are represented – Abu Dhabi, Bahrain, Doha, Jebel Ali and Dubai Hurricanes.” Read the original story at: Rugby community rallies to support Mike Ballard Foundation