Perth footballer Beau Chatley who sustained a "significant" spinal cord injury during a Western Australian Football League game has asked for food for the first time since his accident and was able to move his hand.
Fairfax Media understands that 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.
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WAFL footballer injured
The WAFL's match review panel will today assess a tackle that left 21-year-old Beau Chatley in a serious condition in hospital. Vision: Today Perth News
The incident was not perceived as malicious.
The East Perth Football 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.
Fairfax Media understands that as of Monday, Chatley was still in the intensive care unit in a stable but serious condition and was breathing on his own.
It is not yet known if he will make a full recovery.
"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."
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."
Mr Chatley, an apprentice builder, is originally from Manjimup in WA's South West. He played 68 reserves matches for East Perth over the past five seasons.
with Tess Ikonomou