Source :- PERTH NOW NEWS
Western Bulldogs superstar Sam Darcy is aiming to return to running as soon as next month after conquering the toughest phase of rehab.
Darcy, who ruptured his ACL in round 6 against Geelong, is also pledging to continue flying fearlessly at the ball when he does make that anticipated comeback.
The 22-year-old has had no setbacks in the first part of his recovery, using the pool and spin bike before starting the reconditioning period.
“I saw the surgeon today and he’s really happy with how it’s progressing,” Darcy said as the AFL and Bunnings launched the inaugural National Footy Sausage Sizzle.
“Everything is on track, I am working closely every day with the physios at the club and haven’t really had any hiccups yet.
“The first couple months is the toughest part when you’re learning to walk again and get all the swelling down, but I am walking around comfortably now,” he said.
“I’m moving on the bike, pool swimming and keeping moving every day. There’s lots of stuff I’m doing at the club. The tough aspect of it’s behind me now.
“I am transitioning towards getting strong and running shortly, I think on 16 weeks I am on the AlterG (anti-gravity treadmill).
“We’re being pretty conservative to make sure everything is strong, but in about just over a month I think I start running.”
The makeup of Darcy’s genetics meant he was likely to do a serious knee injury at some stage of his career.
Darcy understands the risks of flying for the footy the way he does but remains confident he doesn’t need to alter his training or attack to prevent further injuries.
“Not at all, I don’t think I need to change anything,” he said.
“I just need to do what I can in terms of strengths, running mechanics and make sure everything is moving efficiency and smartly.
“I still want to play with aggression, play to my strengths, play on instinct and definitely play with a free mind, not worrying about injuries out on the field.
“I am confident I can get 100 per cent back to my best. A lot of people have been through ACL injuries throughout their AFL journeys and other sports I can take some inspiration from.
“I am fully confident that it’s going to go smoothly.”
Darcy said he’d struggled watching this season because since he was a junior playing was the “highlight of the week”.
The top Dog took time away from his rehab to turn sausages at Bunnings on Wednesday before more than 260 community clubs fire up the BBQ for much-needed funds this weekend.
