From Salisbury to Tokyo: A journey of resilience and sport
Andy Fleet and Hayden Fraser, both living in Salisbury, will represent England at the upcoming Visually Impaired Rugby World Championships in Tokyo. The competition takes place this November, with the two joining the Southern Spartans based in London for the global event.
Team captain Hayden Fraser started losing his vision at 17, a change he calls the moment 'the physical, competitive aspect of your life has been taken away.' For him, rugby has become a way to regain confidence and find purpose again.
His teammate Andy Fleet feels the same way. Being selected to compete for his nation, he says, 'just says you are good enough, you can achieve as much as anyone else.' His statement reflects the inclusive and empowering values of visually impaired rugby.
Visually Impaired (VI) Rugby follows its own special set of rules. Kicks during play are not allowed, but conversions and tries are kept, like in regular rugby. The game is similar to touch rugby, with a turnover after six touches. Current rules also include uncontested scrums and line-outs.
England’s first match at the event is on November 6. They’ll play against teams from Japan, France, Ireland, and New Zealand. So far, England’s VI team has won all their international matches, remaining undefeated.
A growing sport, with a global stage
Fraser believes events like the World Championships 'keep the sport growing and getting bigger in the future.' For him and his team, these games are more than a test of skill—they are a way to show how sport can bring people together, challenge expectations and inspire change.