A rugby league match between University of Newcastle and Windale turned to tragedy on Saturday when Windale Eagles back-rower Damian Jobson broke his neck in several places.

Early investigations indicate the 35-year-old’s head came into contact with the knee of a university player as he went in for a tackle during the second half.

The game was cancelled as the severity of accident sunk in.

Jobson’s wife, Brooke, told the Herald the situation was “as bad as it can get” and the family was in shock.

During surgery on Saturday night, doctors confirmed that Jobson’s C4 and C5 vertebrae were affected and he is unable to feel or move from his shoulders down.

“It’s as bad as it can get,” an emotional Ms Jobson said.

“He went into surgery last night – it was very long – at this point it looks like he will become a quadriplegic.

“We’re praying everything is going to be OK, but we’re just not so sure at this stage.”

Jobson was flown to Royal North Shore Hospital on Sunday night where he will undergo specialist testing in the spinal unit.

Windale Eagles Rugby League Football Club secretary Rob Thompson said Jobson’s teammates were devastated by the accident.

“It’s so gut-wrenching,” he said.

“We’ve all felt quite numb since it’s happened and our players have taken it pretty hard. They’re a very tight-knit, strong family and it’s just such an unfortunate accident.”

Plans for fundraising initiatives to cover medical expenses were already under way on Sunday afternoon as teammates came together.

“The entire football community has really rallied around the family,” Mr Thompson said.

“We can’t thank them enough for all the support.”

University of Newcastle Rugby League Club spokesman Shaun Johnston said the opposing side was also coming to terms with the ordeal.

“It’s the worst thing I’ve seen in local football for a long time,” he said. “We’re extremely distressed about it and just praying for the best possible outcome.”

It is the third spinal footballing injury in as many years, with Knights player Alex McKinnon injured in 2014 and Maitland Blacks Rugby hooker Dom Punch suffering a similar fate last year.

Rugby league administrators are focussing on the welfare of players before an inquiry is launched over coming days.