Teilah Ferguson’s Life Altered by Rugby Injury in Hawke’s Bay Match

On a seemingly ordinary Saturday morning in May 2023, rugby player Teilah Ferguson faced a life-altering injury during a match for the Hawke’s Bay Tui. While the team was leading 60-0, Ferguson suggested ending the game early due to several injuries already affecting her teammates. However, the match continued, leading to an unfortunate incident that left her blind in one eye.

As the game neared its conclusion, Ferguson attempted a tackle, but the situation quickly escalated. “I went for the tackle and we fell to the ground, but the other player’s legs kept pumping,” the 25-year-old recalled. In a moment of chaos, the opposing player’s leg struck Ferguson in the eye, resulting in immediate pain and confusion. Initially believing she had sustained a concussion, she dropped to the ground, clutching her eye.

Her best friend and team physiotherapist, Leah Tuhi, rushed to her side. Despite Tuhi’s efforts, Ferguson’s eye had swollen shut, making it impossible to assess the extent of the injury at that moment. This incident not only ended her aspirations of joining the Black Ferns, New Zealand’s national women’s rugby team, but it also drastically changed her life both on and off the pitch.

Ferguson has always been passionate about rugby, dedicating years to her training and development. The thought of representing her country had been a primary goal. Now, she faces the challenge of adapting to a new reality. The loss of vision in one eye brings significant changes, not just in terms of playing the sport, but also in everyday activities.

In the aftermath, Ferguson has been open about her recovery process. She seeks to inspire others facing similar challenges, emphasizing resilience and the importance of mental health. “It’s crucial to talk about these experiences,” she noted. “I want others to know they are not alone in their struggles.”

Support from her teammates and the rugby community has been overwhelming. Many have rallied around Ferguson, offering encouragement and assistance throughout her recovery. The Hurricanes and the wider rugby fraternity have shown solidarity, highlighting the bonds formed within the sport.

As Ferguson navigates her new path, she remains committed to staying involved with rugby, albeit in a different capacity. She is eager to contribute to the sport in any way she can, whether through coaching, mentoring young players, or sharing her story to raise awareness about sports-related injuries.

While the physical outcome of the injury is significant, Ferguson’s spirit remains unbroken. Her journey serves as a poignant reminder of the unpredictability of sports and the strength of the human spirit in overcoming adversity. As she looks to the future, Ferguson embodies hope, determination, and the enduring passion for rugby that has defined her life.