Robert Paylor, a sophomore lock from El Dorado Hills, suffered an injury in the opening minutes of Cal's rugby national championship victory on Saturday, May 6 in Santa Clara. After being treated by medical personnel at the field, he was transported by ambulance to Santa Clara Valley Medical Center.
 
The Paylors issued a statement (below) on May 8 on Robert's condition, and a friend of the family has set up a GoFundMe page, which is intended to support unanticipated costs above and beyond traditional medical care and has been providing regular updates (gofundme.com/RobertPaylor). UC Berkeley has appropriate insurance policies in place that comply with UC and state regulations and relevant sports governing bodies that address sport-related injuries.
 
Statement from the Paylor family:
"The Paylor family would like to extend our sincere gratitude and thanks to the Cal Rugby family, friends and community for all your prayers and support. We can't find the words that express what that has meant to all of us in this very sad time in our lives. Robert is currently working on stabilizing his condition so he can start rehabilitation. The injury paralyzed his lower body with limited motion in his arms. This will be a long and difficult journey for Robert and his outcome is uncertain. But we know his faith and determination will get him as far as he can go in regaining mobility. We are overwhelmed with the love and support we've received from people all over the country and ask that you continue to keep Robert in your prayers."
 
Statement from rugby head coach Jack Clark:
"Our team is devastated by Rob's injury. There aren't words to adequately explain our sorrow for what he and his family are going through. Rob is an extraordinary teammate, friend and student-athlete. As a University-recognized Scholar Athlete, he represents everything that is right and true about collegiate athletics. His challenges will be severe, long in duration and difficult beyond measure. Our team intends to be there with him every bit of the way."
 
Statement from Director of Athletics Mike Williams:
"Our thoughts and prayers are with Robert and his family at this difficult time, and our primary concern is for Robert's long-term health and well-being. We are here to provide help and support in every way possible. Our excitement over another national championship is clearly tempered by Robert's injury, and we certainly hope for the best outcome him and his family."
 
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