'I bawled': Alex McKinnon talks about the joy of being a new dad

In the immediate aftermath of Alex McKinnon’s spinal injury in 2014, the NRL star was haunted by two questions:  Would I be happy again? And will I be able to have children?

An awkward tackle during a clash against Melbourne Storm ended his football career, and changed his life profoundly.  

But more than four years later, his fears have dissolved into an unfamiliar joy. He couldn't be happier.  

The 26 year old has married his partner Teigan and six weeks ago, they became a family of three.  

"Alex is very emotional," Teigan explained. "There are photos and he is just full of emotion, and I was like relief, she is finally here... She looks like a Harriet to me."

Despite it being early days, they admit to wanting a big family.

"When I was leaving the hospital, everyone was saying see you soon and I was like, not too soon," Teigan joked.

"I think I'm going to have three daughters", Alex said.

Alex has recently started a new recruitment role with the Newcastle Knights while continuing his work with Fox Sports. And he is still working hard at his rehab a few times a week.  

He is, quite simply, a lovely guy with amazing determination and an extraordinary view of the world.

The most stunning moment of our interview came right at the end with this question:

If he could go back in time and change things, would he?

His answer will blow you away.

You can see the full interview on Today Show tomorrow.