He's the last real man, and he's Australian.

The Australian: Strewth: Latham off the lead [September 14, 2005]: "DEDICATION to one's life calling is generally a noble cause, but we can't help wondering if South Australian footballer Brett Backwell is taking things too far. Backwell, who plays for Glenelg in the South Australian National Football League, broke the ring finger on his left hand three years ago. Since then he has been in constant pain and has suffered from restricted movement that has hampered his beloved game. Yesterday he announced that, after consultation with medical specialists, he has decided to have the offending finger amputated to improve his playing prospects. 'I love my footy and love playing sport, and if that's going to help me succeed at this level then it's something you've just got to do,' the 24-year-old said."