Sheffield United welcomed local lad and Paratriathlon Champion Steve Judge into their Shirecliffe complex recently as part of their pre-season schedule.
Judge, who after a near fatal crash in 2002 taught himself to walk again – shared his incredible story with the Blades youngsters during the visit.
He told of his pain staking recovery from two shattered legs that left him with limited use in both and how, after suffering from horrific injuries which initially threatened his life, he had to have his right leg partially amputated because of a shattered fibula and tibia, while his left leg was wrenched sideways breaking three ligaments and severing a nerve.
Nine years after his accident and after being told he would never walk again he became a gold medalist at the ITU World Championships Final Beijing, ITU Hyde Park World Championship, ETU European Championships Pontreveda and TATA Steel British Championship.
“To have someone who has been through what Steve (Judge) has been through is something pretty special and unique,” said Academy Manager Nick Cox who hopes Judge’s story can inspire his current crop of apprentices.
“His story since his accident in 2002 is unbelievable and pretty heart warming; the lads were intrigued and responded positively to Steve’s visit.”
“It was a great day, Steve seemed to enjoy himself, whilst the lads welcome him to the Academy and focused throughout on Steve’s magnificent story.”
