Adelaide winger Niamh Kelly says she is embracing the rigours of rehab this off-season after undergoing surgery to repair a shoulder injury.
Kelly, who was recruited to Adelaide via a trade with West Coast ahead of Season Seven, dislocated her shoulder in the Crows’ Round Four win against Collingwood.
The 27-year-old was forced to spend three weeks on the sidelines, before returning to the side in Round Eight.
She held her spot in the team for the remainder of the season, including for the Crows’ two finals, all while dealing with the knowledge she would need surgery post-season.
“I always kind of felt it was a bit unstable, so I thought I might need surgery on it,” Kelly said.
“I was probably a little bit limited to what I could do, but I think when you’re in a game with the adrenalin going through, you kind of forget about the injury, so it didn’t stop me in that sense.
“I am about eight weeks post-op now and it’s going great. It’s nice to have the off-season to do my rehab and get it right.”
Although the 27-year-old is still limited with her shoulder movements, she says she is enjoying the rehab process.
“Straight after surgery I was back on the (exercise) bike, so it’s great to be able to still keep my fitness up that way,” Kelly said.
“I thought it (rehab) would be a lot tougher but I’ve really enjoyed the ups and downs of it all.
“When you get injured, it makes you think in a different way, like how can I change up my workouts and stuff like that.
“Noffy has been doing her rehab as well, so we’ve been pushing each other along the way which has definitely been helpful.”
Reflecting on her first campaign with the Crows, Kelly said it was enjoyable and she was keen for Season Eight, despite not having a start date yet.
“I absolutely loved my first season,” Kelly said.
“The injury was obviously a hiccup along the way but I don’t think it really affected me throughout the year.
“There’s so much of my game that I can continue to improve on - my skills and getting fitter and getting stronger.
“I’m looking forward to getting out with the girls again and playing footy again.”
