On a spring Sunday morning in Sydney, 16-year-old Alex Noble awoke to a 6am alarm, ready for training at Knox Grammar School. While his peers were recovering from nightlife, Alex immersed himself in the fresh scent of grass, participating in NSW under-17 rugby sevens training, which included warm-ups and skill drills. However, when a full-contact seven-on-seven game commenced, his team’s defence was put to the test, leading to an unfortunate accident.
As Noble attempted an impressive play—using a classic move reminiscent of rugby legend David Campese—he was tackled, resulting in a life-changing injury. He recalls the moment he realised the severity of his situation when he found himself unable to move, with his right arm positioned unnaturally, leading to a diagnosis of quadriplegia due to a severe spinal injury.
His journey through recovery was harrowing; nine months in hospital and a diagnosis of C4 quadriplegia left him with no movement below the neck. Alone in his hospital bed, he focused on overcoming adversity. During a pivotal moment of compassion, he encouraged his brother, distraught over their challenging reality, to keep fighting: “If I fight, you fight.” This served as his commitment to not let his injury dictate his future.
Now, Noble uses his experience to raise awareness for spinal cord injuries and motivate others. He worked alongside notable rugby figures to fundraise for SpinalCure Australia, targeting support for spinal cord injury research.
Despite the extensive challenges over the past six years, Alex embodies resilience. He completed his education with distinction and actively participated in rehabilitation, achieving milestones that doctors deemed impossible, like performing squats with added weight. Noble is now a NSW Young Australian of the Year finalist, author, motivational speaker, and tax consultant, navigating life’s complexities from a wheelchair with an unwavering spirit.
Alex advocates for a shift in societal perceptions of disability. He believes in challenging the stereotypes that label individuals with disabilities as inferior, arguing that everyone deserves to be seen as capable and inspired, regardless of physical limitations. His mission revolves around changing hearts and minds to foster inclusivity and understanding towards those with disabilities, aiming to demonstrate that potential exists beyond physical challenges.
Noble’s story is a powerful testament to determination and hope, proving that with the right mindset, one can strive for greatness and inspire change in how society views disabilities.