Rugby Legend Wally Lewis Urges Australian Government to Fund Support Services for CTE

Wally Lewis, a legendary rugby player known as “The King,” has made a heartfelt plea to the Australian government to fund support services and education about chronic traumatic encephalopathy (CTE). The 64-year-old, who played for Queensland state and Australia in the 1980s, revealed that he is living with probable CTE, a type of dementia associated with repeated head injuries.

During a National Press Club address, Lewis shared his personal struggles with fear and anxiety, emphasizing the importance of raising awareness about the long-term effects of concussions in sports. Despite his illustrious career and numerous accolades, Lewis admitted that his memories are now clouded by the shadows of dementia.

Lewis called for better community awareness on concussion and prevention programs, stressing the need for improved tackling techniques from youth to professional levels. He highlighted the growing concern over CTE in contact sports, citing lawsuits in the NFL and rugby union as examples of the increasing scrutiny on player safety.

CTE, a degenerative brain disease linked to repetitive head trauma, can only be diagnosed posthumously and has been associated with a range of cognitive and behavioral symptoms. Lewis, using his platform as a former athlete and sports anchor, vowed to advocate for change and protect future generations from the devastating effects of CTE.

As one of Australia’s most revered sports figures, Lewis’s plea for action has reignited the conversation around player safety and the long-term impact of concussions in sports. His courage in sharing his personal struggles serves as a powerful reminder of the importance of prioritizing brain health in athletic pursuits.