Alex McKinnon

It’s been over a decade since Alex McKinnon’s on-field spinal injury ended his career as a professional rugby league player.  He has accomplished many things since, including a degree in psychology.

Alex McKinnon grew up in Aberdeen, New South Wales. He left his home town at the age of 14 to attend St Gregory’s College Campbelltown with a dream of playing professional Rugby League. Alex was selected in every New South Wales and Australian representative team throughout his junior years, which culminated in his selection as captain of the Australian Junior Kangaroos in 2012.
In 2014 at the age of 22, and with 49 NRL games experience, Alex suffered a spinal cord Injury from a lifting tackle while playing professional rugby league for the Newcastle Knights in Melbourne.
After enduring an extended period in Intensive care and hospital, Alex was classified as a quadriplegic. Confronted by the inability to walk, use his hands, or perform normal daily activities, Alex was suddenly facing unimaginable challenges. With the world watching, Alex made a commitment to break the ‘why me?’ mentality and make the most of his situation.
Alex continually challenges himself to get out of his comfort zone, resist being governed by the uncontrollable and is motivated to be the best he can possibly be. By seeking perspective and the motivation to develop himself, Alex has established a passion for management, leadership, people and helping others.

After finishing as a player with the Newcastle Knights Alex joined the club in as a Pathways program manager, profiling, recruiting and mentoring juniors (aka. next generation of professional players).  Alex is a big believer in mental skills for both athletes and high performers, he said “When I was working with young people in the pathway program, I noticed that the players who excelled weren’t just physically talented; they had a psychological edge. They could overcome adversity, stay disciplined, and remain focused, and those traits often contributed to their success.”

Alex also has a successful side career as a professional speaker.  He has spoken at events for corporations of all sizes, at conferences, various exhibitions and community events.  Alex is a versatile speaker, inspiring and motivating.

In 2024 Alex McKinnon graduated with Bachelor of Psychological Science.