Will’s story
Will spoke to Haemophilia Foundation Victoria about taking on the challenge of playing competition soccer and what has supported him to follow his passion.
What’s one goal you’re proud of reaching in your sport so far?
A goal that I am very proud of is playing soccer at a senior level in a reserves side at the age of 16. And also playing a year up in NPL (National Premier Leagues) for under 17s as well as playing first AGSV (Associated Grammar Schools of Victoria) through my school.
How do you feel after a good practice or game?
After a good game I am full of confidence and it makes me feel like all of my hard work and dedication has paid off giving me a greater sense of purpose and belief in myself.
Is there anything you wish more people understood about playing sports with haemophilia?
I would like people to know that having haemophilia does not impact how I play and also others with haemophilia should not be scared and that getting bleeds from sport is just part of our life.
Have you found any routines that help you stay safe while playing?
A large part of it is staying fit, healthy and building strength to keep my joints healthy to avoid having a bleed. Before and after every training and game I try to stretch and warm up my muscles to also prevent any bleeds.
How has your HTC (Haemophilia Treatment Centre) helped with this?
My HTC physio has provided me with stretches and techniques to keep fit during injuries and when I am healthy playing sport almost every day. She always guides me through my injuries when I am struggling taking it step by step no matter how long the recovery is.
My HTC doctor has provided me with confidence and self-belief to follow my passion and never stop chasing it. Also it is great to have in the back of mind knowing I have a great haematologist on call to speak to at any time.
My HTC nurse has been a great support my whole life always being there whenever something happens. She supports and guides me through all of my bleeds and even helped start me off doing my own needles.
What would you tell other young people with bleeding disorders about sport?
I would tell others not to be afraid and to never stop chasing your passion. Also don’t think about what others might think or say about our situation. If you put in enough hard work and dedication you are guaranteed to thrive.
A part of playing sport with haemophilia can include difficult times, such as the possibility of having multiple bleeds in a row, but you must always try to stay positive and know that with good management and working with the Haemophilia team you will always get back on track. A good athlete with or without haemophilia will always go through tough times of injury.
FIND OUT MORE
To read more about sport and personal stories from young people with bleeding disorders, visit the FACTORED IN youth section on the HFA website.
Talk to your team at the Haemophilia Treatment Centre about the sports you are interested in and how to manage them to help you make the right decisions and plans based on your individual health and situation.
This article was originally published in The Missing Factor Spring 2025, magazine of Haemophilia Foundation Victoria (www.hfv.org.au) and has been adapted with permission.
Images provided by Will and his parents and reproduced with permission.
