Ben Smoldon

All at Sutton Coldfield Rugby club are in awe of Ben; a selfless, proactive, passionate, doer. Ben is passionate about sport and helping young people in particularly he is the heart and soul of our club. Daily as Chairman of the Playing Committee he works for our success which has been considerable, in a large part thanks to him. Each week he mobilises 125+ players to put on the club colours and play rugby. Ben's contribution is even more exceptional considering Ben's personal circumstances. Aged 17, whilst Captain of our 'Colts' side Ben suffered a broken neck in a collapsed scrummage. He is now permanently quadriplegic - requiring 24 hour care. Ben (now 37) has dedicated his last 20 years to serve the community in any way he can. Selflessly volunteering his time to the club he loves, never receiving payment or reward. He has immense gifts, his courage supports and enriches the lives of all of involved with SCRFC and his passion inspires all, especially young people. Ben works with local charities, schools, colleges and universities, raising awareness and charitable funds for rugby and disability and also works part time as a college support worker. His huge spirit, dedication and achievements have, a long time ago, outweighed in our eyes his disabilities; he is an inspiration to all. He is a most worthy individual to carry the Olympic flame as he is the living embodiment of the hope that it engenders and more generally of what we all call `Olympic Spirit`.