One year on from his devastating ACL rupture, Tom Edwards returned to the big stage on Sunday night against the Western Bulldogs at Marvel Stadium.
Edwards’ return to senior footy after injury, like many others, was a long journey, one made easier by those around him. Reflecting on the process, Edwards highlighted the positives of sharing what can be a gruelling experience and the connections it helped build within the club.
“Obviously (the rehab journey was) not ideal, but the crew that I did it with was so good,” Edwards said.
“Nick Bryan, Lewis Hayes, Nic Martin, James Wiseman and Darren Austin, the rehab team are unbelievable, the best people, so that made it a lot easier.
“I just tried to attack (rehab) with a really positive mindset.
“I hadn't done a full AFL pre-season coming over, so I tried to take it as an opportunity to work on my body because I was probably a bit behind in that facet, then build up my strength and take it as a positive.
“It’s obviously not ideal doing your knee, but it was a good opportunity to develop some connections within the Club, with the physios and the rehab team.”
Although it was a slow start for the side on Sunday night, Edwards ignited the second half with his first AFL goal since his debut in 2025, quickly following it up with another soon after.
A key momentum shifter, Edwards finished with 10 disposals and seven score involvements against the ladder-leading Bulldogs, playing his part in a promising performance from the Dons.
“The first half was pretty tough,” Edwards said.
“(The Bulldogs) got going, which was expected. We wanted to come out hard, but they got on top early.
“But I think the way we turned the momentum at halftime, our pressure went through the roof. Some of the efforts from the boys were so good, so I think that's heading in the right direction. Hopefully we can build on that and start to put a few more quarters together.
“There were things we had worked pretty hard on at training, so to see those things come together and start to see some of the payoff was really good.
“It’s a tough reminder of what footy can be like, but it’s nice to be out there and have the opportunity to run around with the boys.”
A reflection of persistence and resilience, Edwards’ return has not gone unnoticed by his teammates, with fellow forward Archie May praising his influence both on and off the field.
“Having Tom Edwards back was great, it was my first game I’ve played with him and it was great to see him out there, he’s such a great fella,” May said.
“He’s someone who’s super level-headed, and when he's got the ball in hand, he's going to make the right decision.”
As he continues to build momentum and confidence at the top level, Edwards’ journey stands as a powerful example of perseverance, connection, and belief, qualities that continue to shape both his game and the group around him.
