Hamish & Spencer say you’re never alone after serious injury
Two young RFU Injured Players Foundation (IPF) members who sustained nerve damage around their spinal cord playing rugby share a great deal, even the same surgeon. But that’s not how they met and formed a lasting “bromance”.
The pair, who describe their relationship like that of an older and younger brother, were introduced by an IPF welfare officer.
Older ‘bro’ Hamish Minton, who was injured in 2022 playing for Chichester Rugby Club, recalls: “He said, ‘there’s a young lad at university who has just had the same kind of injury as you and if you can offer some guidance after your experience that would be great.”
Spencer Wadsworth was injured playing for Keele University 1st XV and says: “Hamish was probably the first guy I spoke to about my injury and what it was like. We started texting and then spoke on the phone.”
That was the start of a lasting friendship, where they talked about how “raw and brutal” their injuries felt at the start and about a mutual crisis of identity, as they gained inspiration from each other.
Both returned to university with the help of the IPF. Hamish has since finished his degree and is working in insurance in London. Spencer is back at uni and now President of Keele men’s rugby team.
Both also ran the London Marathon for the IPF as a way of giving back to the charity that had supported them through their injuries. They went together on an IPF ski course in Andorra and on an Access Adventures adapted water sports day, Spencer relearning to ski and water ski using one arm. Hamish has also enjoyed IPF golf days.
These activities are organised to help players build confidence and independence, in a safe and supportive environment, after a life-changing injury. Players often conquer challenges they previously felt impossible, all while having fun being part of a team again.
Both want to raise awareness of the IPF. Says Hamish: “They’ve been monumental in my recovery. Initially, I was down in the dregs and the IPF picked me up and put me back on my feet. I’ve had support right from day one and continue to have it.
“They’ve supported me as I regain my identity stripped from me as a rugby player. They’re an unbelievable charity thanks to the work they do and the help they give. If you get injured on an English rugby pitch, they are the best people to have on your team."
Spencer had played full back for his school and local club, Old Laurentians, as well as being part of the Worcester Development Academy. He joined the rugby team at Keele University, where he was studying biomedical science. In his third game, in October 2023, against Lancaster, Spencer sustained what is called a brachial plexus injury resulting in permanent paralysis of his right arm and hand.
Like Hamish, he underwent surgery and continues to have ongoing physio rehabilitation. The IPF offered his family financial support for travel to visit Spencer in hospital. The charity also provided emotional support for Spencer through the Engage programme, which aims to empower players to lead the lives they want.
He says: “The IPF basically saved my life. They made me realise I wasn’t alone and, through some of the events I’ve been lucky enough to attend, I’ve met some amazing people.
“The IPF Welfare Officer visited me when I was in a really bad place. They really helped me realise that this isn’t the end, it’s just a different beginning.”
Spencer wanted to challenge himself by running the London Marathon for the IPF, also taking on London Landmarks half marathon as a warm-up. He runs with his arm in a sling to keep it secure.
His marathon led to triathlons where he discovered a love for competitive cycling. The IPF funded a track bike and in this year’s BUCS Para Track Cycling Championships, the 21-year-old won three golds and set a new BUCS record in the process.
In October 2024, Spencer returned to Keele University restarting his first year. While he was in halls initially, he moved out to live with the rugby lads later.
“Being part of the IPF makes you realise you’re not on your own and there’s a support system there for people in a similar situation. I don’t think you could get that kind of unconditional support anywhere else. It’s just like a family.”
The pair have also spent time together at the IPF’s specially adapted hospitality box at Allianz Stadium and at Gallagher Prem matches, enjoying a game with other IPF members.
Their bromance continues, as does their zest for life. Both agree that there are many things they would never have done if it wasn’t for the IPF.
Says Spencer: “After an injury your future changes and you need to reinvent yourself. It’s not about changing the end goal but the path you take to get there. The IPF does so much to help you on that path.”
Hamish also ran the Allianz 5K for the IPF and is encouraging members of the rugby family to do the same.
The next 5k supporting the IPF is at Allianz Stadium on 6 January 2027. You can help the charity’s amazing work by signing up via RFUIPF.org.uk/news with a 20% IPF discount.
