Ben Carson’s Recovery Fuels Strong Season for Ulster

Ben Carson’s journey to becoming a key player for Ulster is all the more meaningful after a life-threatening injury threatened to derail his rugby career. The 22-year-old centre suffered a punctured spleen just two minutes into Ulster A’s game against Connacht in September 2021, an injury so severe that doctors warned it could have been fatal. In the face of such a setback, Carson questioned his future in the sport. “I did go through a pretty tough time,” Carson admits. “The doctors said there was a chance I could have died. It was terrifying.”

Despite his doubts, Carson’s love for the game kept him going. “I’ve always wanted to be a rugby player, so why stop?” he recalls. Over time, he recovered and emerged more resilient, gaining a place in head coach Richie Murphy’s senior squad. Carson has proven his worth on the field, scoring three tries this season and earning a three-year contract extension with Ulster. His rise to prominence began after helping the Irish province win the Under-20 Six Nations Grand Slam in 2022.

He made his senior debut in the United Rugby Championship against Connacht, followed by a first senior start against the Bulls where he scored a try. He has since made seven appearances, further showcasing his growth in the game. Looking ahead, Ben Carson and Ulster will face Connacht in the URC on Saturday, hoping to break a five-game losing streak. Though Connacht will be motivated, Carson remains confident, recalling their earlier victory over them this season. “We’re all guns blazing, ready to get the win,” he says, determined to continue his comeback and help Ulster return to form.