“The Foundation has helped me gain my confidence back” – Ash Malone

Earlier this year, a group of dedicated Wellbeing Officers visited Ashley Malone to see how he was going with his new mobility scooter which was provided to him by the Men of League Foundation.

Ash is currently in Brisbane as he recently received a prosthetic leg and is attending regular physiotherapy to adjust to this change. From the moment he put on the prosthetic leg it felt extremely natural and he was able to walk comfortably. Thus far, Ash is happy with his improvements and is extremely grateful with the progress!

Ash used to play first grade for the Redcliffe Dolphins and despite carrying 105kgs at the age of 21; he blew his coach Arthur Beetson away with ‘some of the silkiest skills he had ever seen’. Following the commencement of his playing days, Ash turned to coaching the next generation of young players and was the proud coach of a local indigenous team, the Brisbane Natives Rugby League Club. The team competed in the second division in Brisbane and went the whole season undefeated under his tutelage.

Ash then ventured away from coaching one team and took great enjoyment in fostering the skills of new junior rugby league coaches coming through the ranks in Brisbane, providing his vast knowledge when called upon. In 2001, Ash took on one final season of coaching and it turned out to be a rewarding one – and just as the Brisbane Natives had in 1989, his team went through the season as undefeated premiers.

Since then, Ash has battled some health problems but says the scooter which the Foundation provided has been instrumental for regaining of his confidence.

“I would do anything for the Men of League Foundation. The Foundation has helped me gain my confidence back. Without the Foundation’s support I would not be able to assist my community. The scooter has allowed me get up and go out whenever I please.

“Never be afraid to ask for help when you need it. You have people out there that want to help you,” said Ash. 

Men of League Foundation Queensland Wellbeing is proudly sponsored by BMD Group.