IF Brett Henman could have picked an ideal way to mark his first representative tournament with the Australian wheelchair rugby league side, it would have been pretty close to what played out in France on Thursday.
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The former Bathurst resident and his Wheelaroos team-mates began their Rugby League Wheelchair World Cup campaign with a commanding 72-24 win over Wales.
It was an impressive display, with the Wheelaroos opening scoring in the second minute and not being headed from then on.
Back in Bathurst, Brett’s father Paul admits he gets goosebumps when thinking about his son competing in such a prestigious tournament.
“He hadn’t played wheelchair rugby league for Australia before this year, this is his first time,” he said.
“I am really proud, he’s a definite inspiration that boy.
“As soon as he had his [climbing] accident in 2013, he broke his back in five or six places, he’s just never given up since.
“He went straight to Wheelchair Sports Australia and he started playing basketball.”
Along the way to his Wheelaroos selection, the now 44-year-old has spent time inspiring others. He has visited a number of schools, including All Saints’ College, to share his story.
Another chapter in that story is now unfolding.
“They play on two basketball courts and gee it’s fast when they hit each other, they’re big hits, it’s incredible,” Paul Henman said.
“If they can come back with the World Cup, oh boy, that would be terrific.”
Australia met France in their second game over the weekend and play England on Monday.