Clarke arrived at the Lions from St Kilda during the AFL Trade Period in October 2009, but had earlier undergone a full knee reconstruction which meant he was in rehab for most of 2010.
His hard work finally paid off in Round 18 last year when he made his return against Melbourne at the Gabba - only to tear his hamstring 20 minutes into the first quarter and miss the remainder of the season.
2011 presents another fresh start for the talented 27 year-old who has completed a full pre-season and is ready to make an on-field impact with the Lions.
“This pre-season has been great,” Clarke said.
“I did most of the work out on the track up until Christmas and am continuing on with that now we are back.”
“The body is in really good nick, so hopefully I can string a few more games together in 2011,” he said.
“The pre-season training period is probably the most important part of the entire season so far as getting your body right and I missed all of last year’s which obviously didn’t help.”
“So I’ve noticed a huge difference being able to get out there and training early.”
“Now I just have to sit down and talk to Vossy and the fitness guys and start mapping out a plan of how many NAB Cup games I’ll play. I’d really like to get a couple in so that I’m ready for Round 1.”
Clarke praised the Lions’ medical team and new Physical Performance Manager Brett Burton for helping build resilience back in his body.
“Our Medical Coordinator Shane Lemcke and I have become close over the past 12 months. I think I spent more time on the physio table last year than on the training track,” he said.
“Brett Burton has also been a great addition from the Crows. He has developed a great training program and I have been getting some good results from it,” he said.
While his time on the sidelines was frustrating, it provided him with an opportunity to experience the thrill of watching live AFL action at the Gabba, often from the best seat in the house.
“I sat among the members in the crowd for most of last season and got to experience the Gabba crowd first-hand which was fantastic,” he said.
“When that ‘LIONS’ chant gets going, it definitely lifts the boys who are out there on the field - especially late in games.”
“I am really looking forward to actually being out there in that type of home crowd environment.”
“It’s just critical that we get as many members and supporters along to games because they can make a huge difference.”
For more information on becoming a Brisbane Lions member in 2011, please contact the Club’s membership department on 07 3335 1777 or email membership@lions.com.au
