There are fears for a young Perth footballer who sustained a "significant" spinal injury during a WAFL game.
Beau Chatley, a 21-year-old player for the East Perth Royals, came off awkwardly from a contest and lost the feeling in his arms and legs during a game against West Perth Falcons at Medibank Stadium in Leederville on Saturday.
The incident was not perceived as malicious.
The club said in a statement on Sunday that Chatley had surgery overnight, with the indication being that he had significant damage to his neck and spinal cord.
"On behalf of Beau's parents, Olivia and Brett, and their family, the club thanks all those who have sent expressions of love and support and asks for the family to be afforded their privacy at this difficult time," the statement read.
"The club will provide further updates as information becomes available and will continue to provide Beau and his family with its full support."
Chatley’s parents travelled from Manjimup to be with their son at Royal Perth Hospital.
Fairfax Media understands that as of Monday, Chatley was breathing on his own but was still in a serious condition.
It is not yet known if he will make a full recovery.
WAFL general manager Steve Hargrave wished Chatley a speedy recovery.
"We want Beau, his family and his friends to know that they have the full support of everyone at the WAFL," Hargrave said.
He said the parties involved were doing everything they could.
"We are working with East Perth Football Club and West Perth Football Club to provide any support required to the clubs and their playing groups," he said.
"We will also be reviewing the incident in accordance with our normal match review processes."
