Rugby player stable after neck injury
By: Ryan Goicoeches & Ryan Shoalmire
Issue date: 10/16/03 Section: News
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Ryan Gilmer, Spring freshman, suffered a severe neck injury about 10 minutes into the game when the scrum collapsed on him, causing him to break one vertebra in his neck and knock four others out of alignment.
Equivalent to the line of scrimmage in American Football, a rugby scrum is where both teams send eight players to bind together, try to push the other team off the ball and win possession.
Gilmer played the middle position on the front row of the scrum. His job was to ensure that his team gained possession of the ball.
Gilmer was transported to Harris Methodist Hospital in Fort Worth. He was allowed to see his family and some of his teammates Saturday evening.
On Sunday, surgery was performed to repair the damage done to his neck, and doctors said the prognosis was positive. He will be transferred to a rehabilitation facility in Houston next week and will begin treatment to rebuild his motor skills.
Gilmer, also known as "Goose," has been described by his teammates as "the all-American college kid" with a great outlook on life. He was the first person at the field for practice, they said.
Even after his injury, friends said he comforted them with his toughness and positive attitude.
Members of the rugby team said Gilmer is not only a great player on the field, but also a great person off the field.
"Goose never has a bad thing to say about anybody," said Brian Tierce, Waco senior. "He always knew the right time to say something funny."
Gilmer will not be able to return to classes this semester but wants to return in the spring, possibly even coming back to play rugby.
"I want him to come back," said Angelo Delvecchio, Pilot Point senior. "He's a great guy and a good person to have around."
The Rugby team and Rugby Litters Sisters ask the entire SFA family to keep Gilmer and his family in their prayers.
After winning victories over the University of Texas and Texas State University on Saturday, rugby team members presented Gilmer's parents with the 24th Annual Fort Worth Cowtown Tournament Collegiate Bowl Championship trophy.
Team members say they remain positive as the team heads into its first cup match of the season against SMU in Dallas on Saturday.
Viewing Comments 1 - 4 of 4
anonymous954
anonymous954
posted 10/16/03 @ 5:22 AM EST
Goose, You know your not just a team mate, but friend and like a little brother. I know with your will, you will overcome this obstacle.
Matt
anonymous954
anonymous954
posted 10/17/03 @ 9:56 PM EST
Ryan: I just got back from visiting you at the hospital and I can't express how much inspiration I feel after our visit. Your attitude, drive, and determination is truly remarkable. (Continued…)
anonymous954
anonymous954
posted 10/23/03 @ 5:09 PM EST
My family is a close friend of the Gilmers and my son is his roommate and best friend. I am trying to send out daily updates on Ryans progress. If anyone is interested, let me know. (Continued…)
anonymous954
anonymous954
posted 10/24/03 @ 4:34 AM EST
Ryan, I just wanted to let you know that you and your family are in our thoughts and prayers. I was upset when I heard the news about you, especially knowing that what happened to you could have just as easily happened to me since we both play that position. (Continued…)
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