After enduring a tumultuous start to his AFL career, Zach Reid of the Essendon Bombers is finally injury-free and eager to make up for lost time. The 23-year-old defender, once plagued by a series of health issues, is now finding his footing on the field, showcasing his potential in the 2025 season.
Reid’s journey has been anything but straightforward. His official debut came in 2021 against Brisbane, but subsequent appearances were marred by injuries, leading to what he humorously describes as three separate debuts. Each return to the field felt like a fresh start, filled with nerves and anticipation.
The Early Struggles
Reid’s initial debut was a challenging one. Facing the Brisbane Lions at a rain-soaked Gabba, Reid battled illness while marking Lions star Joe Daniher. Despite feeling unwell, Reid was determined to play, only to be diagnosed with glandular fever shortly after, which sidelined him for weeks.
His return to training was soon interrupted by a stress fracture in his back, a condition that required six months of rehabilitation. This setback was a harsh introduction to the physical demands of professional AFL, especially after a disrupted draft year due to COVID-19.
Recurring Challenges
Despite a brief return to form in 2022, Reid’s injury woes continued. A repeat stress fracture in his back at the end of the year dashed hopes of a full recovery, pushing him into another lengthy rehabilitation period. This recurrence marked a low point in Reid’s career, casting doubt on his future in the sport.
Reid’s struggle was not just physical but also mental. The constant cycle of injury and recovery took a toll, forcing him to find balance outside of football. He dabbled in university courses, eventually shifting focus from sports science to property and real estate, seeking a life beyond the game.
Turning the Tide
In 2023, Reid faced further challenges with hamstring injuries, missing the entire season. However, a trip to Qatar’s Aspetar hospital with teammate Jordan Ridley provided new insights into managing his body. This experience, coupled with a renewed focus on studying top defenders, began to pay dividends.
Reid’s perseverance is now evident in his performances. With a string of consistent games under his belt, he has become a key player in Essendon’s backline. His recent match against the Demons saw him achieve a career-best 21 disposals, a testament to his growing confidence and skill.
“It’s the best continuity I’ve had for a while and it’s been good to have been playing so consistently. Hopefully, I can have a consistent year and prove what everyone thought when I got picked at 10,” Reid said.
Looking Ahead
As Reid prepares for a significant match against West Coast, he is poised to face his younger brother Archer for the first time on the field. This family showdown promises to be a memorable occasion, not just for Reid but for his entire family, who have supported him through his darkest times.
Reflecting on his journey, Reid acknowledges the resilience he has developed through adversity. While he may not have played as many games as his peers, the lessons learned from his struggles have equipped him with a unique perspective and determination.
“I’ve built up a lot of resilience over the past four years that will hold me in good stead for the rest of my life. And I’m still 23, I’ve got a lot of future in me, so I’m excited for that,” he expressed.
With a renewed sense of purpose and a supportive network behind him, Zach Reid is ready to embrace the future, eager to fulfill the promise that led to his top-10 draft selection. As he continues to build on his recent successes, the AFL world watches with anticipation, hopeful that Reid’s story will inspire others facing similar challenges.
