RugbyWA regrets to advise that a Third-Grade player from Nedlands was involved in an incident that resulted in a serious injury on Saturday, June 21, 2025.
A Third-Grade player from Nedlands Rugby Club was seriously injured during a match against Joondalup Brothers at Sir Charles Court Reserve on Saturday, June 21, 2025. The player involved has suffered a serious spinal injury. Rugby Australia’s Serious Injury Protocol guidelines were followed after the incident. The player was stabilised at the ground and taken to Royal Perth Hospital, where the full extent of the injury is still being assessed.
RugbyWA, Rugby Australia and Nedlands Rugby Club are working with the family to ensure full support is provided throughout the player’s recovery. The health and safety of all participants at all levels of sport is an incredibly important issue for RugbyWA – player safety has always been, and remains, our number one priority.
RugbyWA CEO, Simon Taylor, said: “Our thoughts and support are with Joseph Ritchie, his family and the Nedlands Rugby community as they go through this incredibly difficult time. A much-loved father, partner, teammate and friend, this critical incident has deeply affected all members of the WA rugby community. We all wish Joseph the best as he undergoes the process of recovery.”
Nedlands Rugby Club Senior President, David Round, said: “On behalf of Nedlands Rugby Club, I'd like to extend my thanks to the rugby community for their support, and to RugbyWA for their management of this matter.”
RugbyWA will continue to adhere to Rugby Australia's Serious Injury protocol and Return to Play policy. The organisation will continue to work with Nedlands Rugby Club to ensure the injured player receives the appropriate treatment to support their recovery.
In the event of a suspected spinal injury or fatality, the club or school must call the Serious Injury Case Manager (SICM) on 1800 036 156 in the first instance. Serious injuries must be reported to Rugby Australia via https://australia.rugby/about/codes-and-policies/safety-and-welfare/injuries/report.
