Sam Ward Injury

During the final FIH Olympic Qualifier match against Malaysia on 3 November, Great Britain forward Sam Ward took a ball to the face and suffered significant facial fractures. He underwent surgery on 13 November to reconstruct his cheek and last week saw a number of eye specialists. He currently has a very small amount of sight in his left eye. Contrary to earlier inaccurate reports this morning, Sam has not retired.

Sam commented: “Over the last week, I have received advice from three separate eye consultants. They have all told me that I have suffered damage to the retina of my left eye and that this damage is partly irreversible. 

"I may get some sight back, but this won’t be a quick process, and whether it will be sufficient for me to get back to playing international hockey only time will tell. It is a tough pill to swallow but, as people know, I am not one to give up easily and I will do everything can to make myself available for selection for Tokyo.”

It will be a number of months before we understand the extent of the damage to Sam’s retina. Athlete well-being is Great Britain Hockey’s priority and Sam will receive the best possible support over the coming weeks and months.

Great Britain and England Hockey’s Performance Director, Ed Barney, said, “Sam has suffered a very serious injury. At present, our focus is on supporting Sam to the best possible extent and ensuring that he has access to the best medical provision and wider support. The players and staff wish Sam well during this challenging period.”

BBC Sport had earlier announced that Sam had been forced to retire. Sam had just helped Great Britain secure qualification for next summers Tokyo Olympics with 3 goals against Malaysia, however a ball to the head in the latter stages caused a crushed retina and facial fractures. Ward thanked staff at the Royal London Hospital last week after undergoing surgery.

'We are devastated for Sam; his cheeky chappie demeanor is underscored by genuine warmth and a good heart. Ultimately you want him on your team – now it’s up to his whole team to support him.'

To read more about Sam's career check out Sam's Story.