Lisa Jones (center) presented with check by Martin Gardner and Sarah Bradley

During the 34th Fort Lauderdale Ruggerfest held on February 27th and 28th there was an unfortunate incident in which Mike Jones of the Albany Knickerbockers was severely injured and suffered a broken neck

Jones was rushed to North Broward Regional Hospital and despite emergency surgery Saturday evening, he has been left paralyzed from the neck down.

Hopes and prayers are with Jones that he will begin to recover during the coming months.

The winners of the 2010 Ruggerfest Premier Championship; Life University have been very generous and have donated their winnings of $2,000 to Jones and his family.

The check was presented to Lisa Jones by Martin Gardner and Sarah Bradley on behalf of Life University and Life's director of rugby Dan Payne spoke with Mike’s wife Lisa by phone. He gave the following thoughts;

“Our community constantly fights for awareness, exposure & growth. However, during times like these the closeness of the American rugby community becomes our greatest strength,” said Payne.

“Our thoughts and support are with Mike and his family during this time.”

The Albany Knickerbockers have set up a Trust Fund on behalf of Mike and his family, Lisa and children.

"The Ft Lauderdale Knights Rugby Club will be doing everything we can to support a national campaign of fund raising," added Gardner.

Contributions can be made payable to:

Michael Jones, Supplemental Need Trust

and sent to:

Albany Knickerbockers R.F.C.
P.O. Box 1654
Albany, NY 12201

For further information please contact Martin Gardner at: martin@ftlrugby.com