Huxley back after brain tumoor
14 March 2010 (09:43)
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| Julian Huxley © Gallo Images |
Former Wallaby Julian Huxley has returned to the playing field
for the first time in two years following a brain tumour, setting up
three tries in a win for the ACT Brumbies reserves.
Fullback Huxley played for the Brumby Runners when they beat the
Junior Waratahs 36-16 on Sunday.
Huxley's Super 14 and test career was suspended in 2008 after
routine scans following a head injury detected a brain tumour. The
nine-test veteran pursued a medical clearance for the past two
years which allowed him to take his place for the Runners.
Contracted to the Brumbies to the end of this year, the
30-year-old Huxley ran, kicked and passed with assurance, although
he admitted being concerned about heavy contact.
Huxley said on Sunday he still had aspirations to play again for
the Brumbies and Wallabies.
"I've stayed pretty fit through the last couple of years and I
knew what I could do," Huxley said after the match.
"I never got too worried about it because I couldn't expect
after what I've been through for people to know how I was feeling.
"I wouldn't be doing this if I didn't think I could get back and be
as good if not better."
He cleared the last bureaucratic hurdle to playing when he
signed a clearance with Brumbies chief executive Andrew Fagan on
Saturday morning.
Huxley was told in March 2008 that he had a benign brain tumour
and underwent surgery. Three months later, he was named kicking
coach of the Brumbies, but said he hoped to return to playing.
A veteran of 53 Super tournament games, Huxley was part of
Australia's World Cup squad in 2007 after making his test debut
against Wales earlier in the season.
Read more on the latest rugby news page.
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