Wally Lewis opens up on fear and embarrassment after CTE diagnosis

Legendary footy great Wally Lewis has bravely shared his battle with an incurable disorder, shedding light on the harsh reality faced by former rugby league players. The news of Lewis being diagnosed with probable Chronic Traumatic Encephalopathy (CTE) has sent shockwaves through the sporting community, raising concerns about the long-term effects of repeated head injuries in contact sports.

Lewis, known as “The King” for his remarkable achievements on the field, has now become the fourth Immortal of the game to be diagnosed with this degenerative disease. His candid admission of fear and embarrassment in dealing with the effects of early onset dementia has sparked a national conversation about the urgent need for better protocols to prevent, detect, and monitor head injuries in sports.

The 68-year-old, who retired as a sports presenter last year, highlighted the devastating impact of CTE on his daily life, emphasizing the importance of taking brain injuries seriously. With no known cure for the condition, Lewis called on the government to allocate funds towards a national pilot program to support individuals with CTE and raise awareness about the risks associated with head injuries in sports.

The former Maroons captain’s plea for action comes at a crucial time, as more athletes like Collingwood premiership defender Nathan Murphy are forced to retire due to ongoing concussion issues. The Senate inquiry into repeated head injuries is expected to deliver its findings soon, putting pressure on the NRL to address the growing concerns surrounding player safety.

As the sporting community grapples with the harsh realities of CTE, Lewis’s courageous stance serves as a reminder of the importance of prioritizing player welfare and implementing stricter protocols to safeguard the future generations of athletes. His call to action resonates with parents, coaches, and officials alike, urging them to take proactive measures to protect the well-being of all individuals involved in contact sports.