But for Mita and Kate Wetini these words became a stark reality when their little boy was struck in the head with a metal pole during a Maitland Rugby Club clean-up.

Nate, 6, was volunteering at Marcellin Park, Lorn, late last week when he suffered the serious head injury.

Following emergency surgery and initial concerns for his life, Nate has been removed from the critical list at John Hunter Hospital.

But the full extent of his injury remains unknown.

“This has been a freak accident and it’s an absolute miracle Nate has survived at all,” spokesman for the Wetini family and Nate’s coach Dan Gollan said.

“But it has affected us all very deeply because this isn’t just a club, it is a family.”

The club has launched the Nate Wetini Appeal – through The Mutual – to raise money for the young family.

“We want to raise as much money as we can so Mita and Kate have a bit of buffer while Nate recuperates, because we just don’t know how long that will take,” Mr Gollan said.

And while Nate has made some progress, his vision and speech remain seriously affected.

“It’s a bit too early to tell what’s going to happen with Nate. But he has made some progress, which is pretty amazing in itself,” Mr Gollan said.

“Anyone who knows Nate knows how tough this little fella [sic] is. He started playing under 7s at the age of four and is absolute talent.

“But he has a long road ahead of him, and he and his family will need our support.”

Nate’s story has also reverberated across the Hunter with members of the Singleton Rugby Club donning white arm bands in his honour during their weekend games.

“Obviously our thoughts and prayers are with the family at this time and we’ll be supporting them

 to the best of our ability during Nate’s recuperation,” Maitland Rugby Club president Ben Emmett said.

“This is obviously something that has touched everybody in the club, particularly those volunteering on the day.

“At this point, Nate’s recovery is an unknown process, however we will be with the family and Nate for as long as it takes.”

Donations to the Nate Wetini Appeal can be made at The Mutual - BSB 646-000, account number 10006309.