There is so much to love about playing AFL footy, but injuries have always been – and will always be – and an unfortunate part of the game.

Every player has had to deal with injuries at one stage throughout their career, although some have had a tougher time than others.

It’s probably fair to say that I’ve copped my fair share throughout the journey.

A complicated knee injury in 2008 and, more recently, an Achilles strain have kept me out for lengthy periods.

In six and a bit seasons, I’ve played 71 out of a possible 136 senior games at a strike rate of just over 50%.

But there are plenty of players who have been worse off than me.

An old Lions teammate of mine, Pat Garner, comes to mind straight away. Patty had rotten luck with injuries, and was forced to undergo three knee reconstructions in five years at the Club.

Unfortunately he was delisted at the end of 2009 and never had the opportunity to play even one senior match.

Callum Bartlett’s another one who’s been dealt a pretty tough hand, having overcome two knee reconstructions in his three years at the Lions.

To his credit, Cal has found some terrific form with the Lions Reserves of late, and could very well make his long-awaited debut later this season.

Brent Staker is another guy who’s only managed a handful of games in the past two years after having some ongoing troubles with his knee. But like Callum, Stakes has remained positive throughout his rehab and is set to make his on-field return with the Reserves this Saturday. 

Claye Beams and Stephen Wrigley have been the hard-luck stories for our Club so far this season.

Both guys have suffered season-ending knee injuries, and are in the early stages of a long rehabilitation program.

I can certainly relate to what they’re currently going through, and will gladly offer any advice on dealing with injury setbacks.

If there’s any solace to be taken from a terrible situation, it’s that they’re not the first players to be sidelined for a long period of time.

There have also been countless examples of players who have overcome serious injuries and gone on to enjoy long and successful careers.