East Geelong coach Ned Aulsebrook is targeting a Round 1 return after undergoing a shoulder reconstruction.
The former Barwon Heads vice-captain carried a shoulder issue throughout the Eagles’ campaign after suffering the damage in the 2023 preliminary final.
“It was heavily strapped throughout the year, and I wasn’t at risk of injuring it any more,” Aulsebrook said.
“But, the pain management throughout the week was something I couldn’t cope with for another year.
“I think it was the right call not to get it done at the time to set the tone at training in the new role and get around the boys more on the track.
“Now that the runs are on the board after a year at the club, I’m confident it was the right decision.”
Aulesbrook went under the knife earlier this week, and early indications are positive for a six-month recovery.
“I should be no worries to start Round 1,” he said. “If it’s a little bit after that, we’ll go from there.
“But, I’m happy to have two functioning shoulders next year.
“I didn’t realise how much I’d be grabbing at it until I watched the footage.
“I don’t know if that impacted my attack on the footy, but there were certainly tackles I would normally make… and it’s not me not trying, but there was no strength in the arm.
“And the other thing was my benchpress was weak for the last 14 months, and I can’t live like that.”
In a draft fixture seen by K rock Football, East Geelong is due to host Bannockburn in the opening round.
However, it is understood the Eagles are preparing for several away games to open their campaign as they wait for the second netball court at Richmond Crescent to be completed.
X: @krockfootball
