Rehabilitation can mark a lonely road to recovery for most AFL players working their way back from injury, but GC SUNS rehabilitation coach Max Kennedy says companionship has been a blessing in disguise for Tom Lynch and Brandon Matera as they recover from injury.
“They have been in heavy rehab focus for the last eight weeks and their programs have run parallel to each other’s which has certainly been a benefit for them,” Kennedy said.
“Throughout their rehabilitation they have been motivating and encouraging each other through the process and certainly been working hard.”
A posterior cruciate ligament injury against Essendon in Round 12 has seen Lynch spend an extended period on the sidelines, while Matera required surgery on his ankle after scans revealed the worst for the exciting goal-sneak.
Admired around the club for his competitive spirit and hunger, watching his team mates take to the field each week has been incredibly tough for Matera.
“He’s not overly keen on training – he’s just a pure footballer who wants to go out there and play,” Kennedy said.
“In the past it has been a challenge for him but his attitude towards training has been outstanding.”
And Kennedy was quick to credit Lynch for his involvement with Matera’s rehabilitation campaign – telling goldcoastfc.com.au the 199cm key forward’s professionalism and strong work ethic had rubbed off on his much smaller housemate.
“Lynchy has pulled him by the ear and taken him with him,” he said.
“Tommy is more of a self-starter whereas in the past Matera has sat back on his heels.”
“But Fish (Matera) has definitely developed an appetite for it all.”
The former Brisbane Lions champion hopes he can have them leaving for the end-of-season break in the best physical and mental conditioning possible to ensure they return hungrier when they come back for the club’s pre-season training camp.
“I’d like them to leave here when they finish the year in as good a knick as possible, so they can go away with a free mind knowing they can come back ready to perform.”
