WHEN Daniel Menzel runs out against Collingwood on Friday night it will be 1450 days since he played his last AFL game.
In those 3 years, 11 months and 19 days Menzel has undergone 4 knee reconstructions, countless hours of rehab and missed out on an AFL premiership.
For most young men it would have been too much to bear, but not Menzel.
The 23-year-old’s optimism, positivity and bright outlook on life is extraordinary.
It’s no wonder he’s a Cats crowd favourite and despite having only played 21 senior AFL games, Menzel’s highlights reel is breathtaking.
It’s easy to forget just how good he is and the stats don’t lie.
In 2011 before that fateful Qualifying final against Hawthorn, Menzel had kicked 28 goals in just 18 games.
He’s got talent to burn. One-on-one he’s almost unbeatable and his explosive power, speed and agility mean he’s got the full bag of tricks.
High-flying hangers, goal square wrestles, blind turns and no look handballs, Menzel is the definition of the complete footballer.
Many have questioned whether the unlucky Cat can return to his best after such a horrific run of injuries but his current form in the VFL has been impressive.
Since returning to football this year, Menzel has been named in the Cats best in 4 of his 6 matches, kicking 11 goals.
But the dangerous forward has mixed feelings heading into his long awaited return to AFL football against Collingwood.
"It's every emotion possible,” Menzel told CatsTV. "I still am extremely excited, but I guess the nerves and everything else will kick in soon."
And he’s been buoyed by the comeback of close friend and rehab-mate Nathan Vardy.
Despite playing just his first senior game in almost two years, Vardy made an impressive return from a knee reconstruction.
Playing as a ruck/forward Vardy recorded 2 goals, 20 hit-outs and 14 disposals against St Kilda. "I loved it, I loved being back out there.
"It’s obviously going to go a long way with my confidence for my body," Vardy said.
The timing for Menzel’s return couldn’t be better. The last time he played against the Pies he booted 5 goals.
He’s a big game player making his return in Geelong’s biggest match of the season. The Cats whole year is at stake on Friday night against Collingwood where only a win will do.
So let’s pray Menzel gets through unscathed and his comeback game is capped off by a Cats victory!
Good luck Daniel the whole football world is behind you.
It’s felt like an eternity but it will be worth the wait.
Go Cats!
Sean Sowerby
Channel 7 News Sports Presenter
Proud Geelong Member
