England Wheelchair Rugby League Star Rob Hawkins Overcomes Severe Illness

England wheelchair rugby league player Rob Hawkins has emerged as one of the standout figures in international sport, overcoming a debilitating health battle that left him bedbound for 18 months during his youth. Now 25 years old, Hawkins is a central figure in the England squad aiming to defend their World Cup title and secure a historic third tournament victory.

England is scheduled to face Australia in Wollongong in the semi-finals of the Wheelchair competition. Hawkins, who plays as a wing for both England and the Halifax Panthers, previously helped his national side triumph in Manchester four years ago. His athletic background before his illness included running, football, and an early interest in rugby league.

Hawkins discovered the sport in 2014 through an accidental mix-up when he and his family searched for a local wheelchair basketball club, only to arrive at a wheelchair rugby league session instead. Despite managing his physical limits during those initial minutes on the court, he chose to continue participating and quickly developed a competitive drive that revived his athletic pursuits.

Before taking up the sport, Hawkins dealt with chronic fatigue syndrome that was severe enough to require walking frames or family assistance just to reach the bathroom. The condition also forced him to miss two years of high school education.

Despite his recovery and subsequent success, Hawkins continues to manage his health by resting when needed and pacing his physical activity. His achievements in the sport include winning the International Rugby League Golden Boot Award in both 2024 and 2025 as the International Wheelchair Player of the Year, alongside holding the Super League Wheels of Steel title as the competition's best player.