sport news Touch footy referee almost dies after coward punch during game, with former NRL ... trends now
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A touch footy referee suffered seizures and a brain bleed after allegedly being coward punched from behind while officiating a social game in Brisbane.
Jason Fernie was refereeing a social game of touch footy on Monday night at Brothers St Brendan's in the Brisbane suburb of Rocklea when he was allegedly punched in the head from behind by a member of a team called 'The Grubbies'.
He was knocked unconscious, suffered a seizure and was foaming at the mouth on the field before being treated by paramedics. The 49-year-old also suffered a brain bleed.
Touch footy referee Jason Fernie (pictured) was knocked out during a social game when he was allegedly coward punched by a player
Fernie said it has been a hard few days since the attack and he feels lucky to be alive.
'I don't remember much of the second half, if any at all - obviously I got hit and woke up in hospital,' he told 9News.
'I was discussing something with one of the players, and this guy has just come from behind and got me.
'The doctor said one punch kills, so I'm lucky I'm alive, really. The pain on the head is just throb, throb, throb all the time.'
Former NRL referee Gavin Badger (pictured sending off Matt Prior in 2012) was disgusted by the alleged attack
Ex-NRL referee Gavin Badger, who officiated over 300 games at the top level, condemned the cowardly act.
'What is wrong with people?? Referees of any sport are lovers of that game and just want to stay involved and give back,' he wrote on Twitter.
'Social sports are meant to be fun for all, please think about that next time you are about to have a shot at someone
