Mathias Dantin: an exceptional rugby player

Disability, for better or for worse: The inspiring story of Mathias Dantin

Mathias Dantin, a former rugby player who became quadriplegic after a bad tackle during a school rugby match in Bagnères de Bigorre, shares his moving and inspiring journey. Despite adversity, Mathias has managed to transform his tragedy into a source of inspiration and positive change.

He created an association: Courage Mathias, which you can discover here: click on the logo 

An unexpected turn

Rugby, Mathias' lifelong passion, radically changed his existence. After the accident, several months of rehabilitation were necessary. During this period, Mathias not only relearned to live with his disability but also forged remarkable mental resilience. Faced with the high costs incurred by his disability, the Bagnères stadium initiated an online fundraiser, triggering a legal battle against the compensation shortcomings related to school sports activities. Faced with these obstacles, Mathias created an association to channel the financial support obtained and convey a message of hope and solidarity.

An exceptional patronage.

Mathias' hospitalization was the scene of an exceptional mobilization from the rugby community, notably thanks to Antoine Dupont who called Mathias' father to check on him. Cyril Baille, one of his visitors at the hospital, formed a strong friendship with Mathias, a friendly "love at first sight" as Mathias describes it. "Cissou", as he calls him, naturally became the patron of his association. This collaboration symbolizes the unwavering support of the rugby family for one of their own.

A force of nature.

Mathias draws his strength from the unconditional love of his adoptive family, asserting that the bonds of the soul surpass those of blood. Convinced of the educational power and values of respect and courage, he works through his association to promote these essential principles.

A message to share

With the help of Marco Etcheverri, Mathias co-wrote "Anthony's Rugby", a book for young readers, aiming to transmit the fundamental values of rugby. His commitment to rugby's governing bodies and his admiration for Fabien Galthié testify to his positive and inclusive vision of the sport.

The association's projects.

Mathias' association organizes events to raise awareness about disability and solidarity through sport, such as the "Les copains d’abord" evening and the "Défi partage" day. These initiatives aim to build bridges between the world of sport and that of disability.

- "Les copains d'abord" evening on April 13th in Horgues in the Hautes-Pyrénées

- "Défi partage" day, all united by sport, will take place on June 15th at the Bagnères stadium.

- you can also follow Mathias on Mathias' Instagram account

An Ambassador for Religion Rugby.

Mathias has also joined the ranks of Religion Rugby as an ambassador, drawn by the brand's values and approach. His active involvement, including in product selection and participation in photoshoots, underscores his commitment to the principles of rugby.

A committed vision

In his reflections on society and current sports events, Mathias criticizes the lack of education and values the authenticity and perseverance of farmers and local residents. He also takes a stand on current topics, such as the controversy surrounding the Olympic Games poster, emphasizing the importance of national identity.

Mathias Dantin, through his story and actions, embodies an example of courage, positivity, and change. His ability to transform a personal ordeal into a collective cause is a source of inspiration for all.

Some of his quotes that marked our interview and command admiration:

"Confined to a wheelchair, I no longer walk, yet I keep moving forward. My disability has strengthened my mental maturity."

"Today, I live life at 10,000%, whereas before I sought adrenaline to feel alive. Today, I'm still vulnerable, so I live every moment to the fullest, living completely and all the time."

"I'm lucky in my misfortune because I only lived 17 years able-bodied. I can see my future life and build it without disruption."

"I'll do everything to play wheelchair rugby. For now, I can't, but rest assured, failing to play the first and second halves, I've still resumed the third halves in a wheelchair."