After enduring a tumultuous start to his AFL career, Zach Reid is finally injury-free and making significant strides on the field. The young Essendon defender, who has faced a series of setbacks since his debut, is now proving his worth and silencing doubts about his future in the sport.
Reid’s journey has been anything but smooth. His initial AFL debut came against Brisbane in 2021, but it felt like he had three separate debuts due to subsequent injury comebacks. “Each one I’ve been so nervous it’s felt like a first game every time,” Reid shared with AFL.com.au, reflecting on his experiences.
His early career was marred by a string of injuries, including foot, back, hamstring, and pectoral issues, not to mention a bout of glandular fever that left him bedridden. Despite these challenges, Reid has shown remarkable resilience and determination to return to the field stronger than ever.
The Early Struggles
Reid’s actual AFL debut was a challenging encounter against Brisbane, where he faced former Essendon star Joe Daniher. Despite feeling unwell, Reid was determined to play, only to be diagnosed with glandular fever shortly after. This illness sidelined him for several weeks, marking the beginning of his injury woes.
Following his recovery, Reid faced a stress fracture in his back, which required six months of rehabilitation. This setback was particularly disheartening, as it came after a promising return to form. “It was in the exact same spot. I’d just done a big, six-month rehab and I felt good,” Reid recalled, describing the frustration of his recurring injuries.
Learning and Growing
Throughout his struggles, Reid has gained invaluable knowledge about his body and the demands of AFL. He learned about the vulnerabilities of tall athletes, biomechanics, and the importance of resilience. “It was definitely challenging. I was pick 10 and when you get drafted high you think it’s all going to go well for you,” Reid admitted.
He also realized the importance of finding balance outside of football, pursuing a sports science degree before switching to property and real estate. This shift helped him cope with the mental challenges of his injuries, allowing him to focus on recovery without being consumed by the sport.
Turning the Corner
Reid’s perseverance is paying off. He has played four consecutive AFL games, showcasing his talent and potential. His performance against Mitch Georgiades in round four was particularly impressive, and he achieved a career-best 21 disposals against the Demons.
His partnership with teammates Jordan Ridley and Ben McKay in Essendon’s backline is strengthening, and Reid is gaining confidence in his abilities. “It’s the best continuity I’ve had for a while and it’s been good to have been playing so consistently,” he said.
Looking Ahead
Reid’s journey is far from over. This week’s match against West Coast will be a special occasion, as he faces his younger brother Archer for the first time. “It’ll be funny this week and it’ll be good for my parents,” Reid noted, highlighting the significance of the family matchup.
Despite the setbacks, Reid remains optimistic about his future in the AFL. “I’ve moved on and accepted what’s happened in the last four years but I’m keen to get after it,” he stated, eager to continue proving himself on the field.
As Reid continues to build on his recent successes, his story serves as a testament to the power of resilience and determination in overcoming adversity. With a promising career ahead, he is poised to make a lasting impact in the AFL.
