Hawthorn footballer Jarryd Roughead says he is “all good to go” for 2017, even suggesting he could make a return in the AFL pre-season competition.
After missing all of the 2016 season due to treatment for melanoma, making any return to the field for the Hawks was Roughead’s main objective said.
But such has been his progress, the 29-year-old suggested he could make it back before the regular season.
“I’ve been lucky enough that we’re all good to go this year. So hopefully, in the coming weeks, we can maybe suit up for the NAB Cup,” Roughead told the Hawks website.
“Wait and see for the footy season but obviously to get back and playing amongst the boys is what you want to do.”
The 29-year-old was diagnosed skin cancer in May 2016 and wasn’t expected to make a return until mid-2017 but received the all clear from doctors just before Christmas.
In 2015 he also missed two games to have a melanoma removed from his lip but still managed to play out Hawthorn’s premiership season.
Birdman
Guest
fair enough Rick but I reckon this preview from another media outlet is pretty spot on https://www.sen.com.au/news/2017/01/11/2017-afl-preview-hawthorn-s-best-22/
Doc Disnick
Roar Guru
I'll have a crack closer to the season start. Cam usually does a good lead up series, which I generally add quite a bit of in-depth analysis to. Statistically speaking though; 3 new teams enter the 8 each year, so the question begs: Which 3 are most likely to dropout? I'd say Hawthorn & North are the two most likely candidates, followed by West Coast, Cats & possibly even the Dogs. Don't be surprised if we see a 2009 like performance again from the reigning premier. GWS, Swans and Adelaide are about the only 3 certainties for the 8 next year in my humble opinion.
Birdman
Guest
seems like wishful thinking, Rick. I'd be interested in which 8 teams you think will be better.
Doc Disnick
Roar Guru
They will miss the finals in 2017.
Birdman
Guest
'onya Roughie. Can't understand the doubters who think the Hawks will miss finals in 2017.
Brinnx
Guest
He could be the inspirational story of the year. Hard to see him coming back as the superstar he was before his illness, but if he does get back to near his best than Hawthorn may stay in the 8 this year. IMO they would be happy to take a "down" year this year before reloading for 2018 with a healthy Roughie back to his best.
Doc Disnick
Roar Guru
It will be a great day for all. Welcome back big guy.
The Finger
Guest
I really appreciate Roughy's courageous and determined efforts to return to footy. He is a great champion of the game and I love watching him play. (No, I don't follow the Hawks, but this guy deserves every good chance to return to success). He is good for the AFL brand.
Penster
Roar Guru
The first time the big Rough runs through a banner will be a great day for our club "All you need is Rough".