Rugby player Jason “Moon” Clarke was living his dream when his reality was shattered.
Riding in the back seat of a vehicle while coming home from work last November, the star scrum forward was involved in an accident on the Beetham Highway which left one person dead and Clarke paralysed.
Though it remains uncertain whether he will walk again, the strength of his character cannot be questioned.
Following in the footsteps of his father Andy, Clarke joined the Caribs Rugby Club at the age of 19 and experienced a rapid rise through the local ranks which saw him representing T&T within a year and the West Indies soon after. He had been in the midst of a storied career before tragedy struck.
News of the accident came as a blow to the local rugby fraternity, where Clarke is universally liked and respected.
“There was total shock and sadness all around,” said national coach Larry Mendez. “It was the last thing anyone would expect. Jason is such a charismatic person, loved by all, and one of the players that had friends from everywhere.”
After spending six months in and out of the hospital, Clarke returned to the rugby field to support his former T&T teammates during their game against Guyana in St Augustine last week. Speaking from his home in Laventille recently, he admitted the reunion had been bittersweet.
“It’s very hard, knowing that I used to play and that I could be on the field but I’d rather be there than not watching it at all. Just because I can’t play doesn’t mean I can’t be involved. I’m very close with the team.”
Mendez said Clarke’s presence on the sidelines had given a jolt of inspiration to the players, who went on to win 20-0 and dedicated the match to him.
“It was the first time we’d seen him in a public function since the accident and it was a great motivation tool for the team,” Mendez said.
“It was great that he could come hang out and be a part of the game again and I hope he will continue to be a part of set up.”
Now 27, Clarke looks back at his career with fondness and gratitude, glad to have excelled in a sport he remains passionate about.
“Being on tour, celebrating victories, winning league titles and tournaments. It was great,” he said.
“With all the camaraderie among the players, it was like having another family.”
Mendez said Clarke had been one of the standout players of his generation.
“He was right up there with best; always willing to learn and share his knowledge,” said Mendez.
“He was a great passer and handler of ball which allowed him to play both versions of game. He was a really special player and we’re hoping for the best and that he’ll be able to walk again. He’s missed both on and off the field.”
Clarke plans to continue attending local matches in the upcoming months between trips to Colombia, where he will be undergoing a physical therapy programme with the goal of walking again.
“I’m just going to do everything I have to do and hope for the best. You have to stay strong,” he said.
He said he had been grateful for the support of his friends in the game, who had been by his side throughout.
“They’ve been calling, sending messages. Everything. We’re always in touch.”