AN RAF veteran from Hoyland has made it to the finals of the Volleyball England Grand Prix with his Help for Heroes team.
Following a 14-year career in the RAF, Chris Platts was medically discharged after developing a debilitating back condition known as spondylolysis pars defect.
This is a condition caused by a fracture in the lower back that usually develops in younger people as a result of repetitive stress and strain.
After years of physio and other treatments Chris, 39, had spinal fusion surgery in April 2021.
He still has chronic lower back and hip pain due to the injury, which limits what he can do on a day-to-day basis.
Chris says he is honoured to have made it to the finals with his team, which take place next Saturday at The National Volleyball Centre.
He added: “I was always really active before my injury and played a lot of sport.
“Losing a career I loved, as well as not being able to play sport was a big blow for me.
“Discovering sitting volleyball has made a really big difference.
“Once a month I get my regular fix of being with other people who have served in the armed forces as well.
“My condition isn’t going to get any better, but I want to keep playing as long as I can.”
