""They are at the last stage of their rehabilitation program, which involves running, swimming, weights and physiotherapy. The program has been gradual and we haven't wanted to rush their progress. I expect all of them - Watson, Winderlich, Bannister and Reynolds - to all come back for pre-season training ready to go. We have got them on rehabilitation programs now, so I expect them to come back and hit the ground running,"" Quinn said.
Reynolds had groin surgery late in the season, which in the short term ended his season, but as Quinn pointed out, in the long run should be of enormous benefit to Reynolds and the club. ""The proof will be in the pudding next year when Joel starts playing. But I think when everyone sees the progress he has made, they will realise it was the right decision for him to have surgery.""
The Essendon squad underwent medical assessments before going on a two-month break. According to club physiotherapist Bruce Connor the assessments are routine and it is an opportunity for the medical staff to assess any niggles the players may have been carrying over the course of the season. ""We encourage the players to let us know if any areas are a bit sore or don’t feel quite right. The break is a chance for them to get things repaired before the pre-season,"" Connor said.
Quinn expects the players to return in good physical condition for the pre-season, but doesn't prescribe programs for each player. ""I don't really give them much to do, because I think they need to have a proper break and get away. If they specifically request something I will give them stuff to do. They have enough of me through the year, without me giving them a six week program for their holidays. I tend to let them do their own thing, but encourage them to come back in the right condition.""
Bomber skipper James Hird was one of a handful of players to undergo post season surgery in recent weeks. Hird had a routine knee scrape on both knees in the week after the Port Adelaide loss. ""Basically James had a clean out of the knee region. It was nothing serious and was a routine service,"" Connor said. Dean Solomon had a minor groin operation on Wednesday, September 17th. ""Once again this wasn't major surgery. Dean has had a bit of tension in the groin region and the surgery will improve this for him,"" Connor said.
Other players that underwent post season surgery include:
Scott Lucas - will have a plate removed from his lower leg.
Damien Peverill - will have a plate removed from his forearm.
Mark McVeigh - shoulder arthroscope to clean up the area.
Dean Rioli - thumb surgery to repair ligament damage.
Marc Bullen - finger surgery to repair ligament damage.
The good news for the club this season is that only one player underwent major surgery. After the horrible run with injuries the club has had over the past few seasons, it is welcome news. Rookie Ben Haynes had full reconstructive shoulder surgery after dislocating his shoulder in a pre-season practice match. ""Ben had full surgery and we gave him the full rehabilitation time. This proved to work in his favour, because he came back at full strength for the second half of the season,"" Connor said.
