After starting pre-season on a modified training program, Hugh Greenwood eyeing off a return to the field in the JLT Community Series.
Greenwood was experiencing Achilles pain towards the end of last season, with a decision made to undergo minor foot surgery in November.
The recovery process was a test of patience for the promising midfielder, who up until recently had remained relatively injury-free during his basketball and football careers.
“It’s been a long couple of months, probably longest I’ve ever spent on the sidelines with an injury,” he said.
“There’s a bit of light at the end of the tunnel now.
“I’ve been working closely with Brad (Newton, Physical Performance Coach, Strength and Conditioning), and finally starting to slot back in with the main group.”
The 25-year-old is coming off breakout 2017 season, where he played 15 games after making his debut in Round Nine.
Known for his fierce tackling and contested work, the former basketballer is focused on continual improvements in specific areas of his game as he eyes off a JLT Community Series return ahead of the season proper.
“From day one as a basketballer, it’s been my fitness base and my running capacity, again they’ll be focus points for me,” he said.
The Crows were put through their paces at training on the first day of their Gold Coast training camp, with Tuesday set aside for recovery and beach activities as the players prepare to hit the track again on Wednesday.
Greenwood’s first training session with the main group since going under the knife was a ‘massive’ one he enjoyed.
“I’m feeling really good, I somehow managed to run at 101 per cent yesterday.
“I am already feeling better and I’m faster than I was pre-surgery.”
Greenwood has already seen the benefits of the playing group being able to spend more time together in a different environment.
“We spend time with each other every day at the Club, but it’s different when you’re around each other 24-7 and sharing a room,” he said.
“Eating dinners and breakfasts, that’s a chance to bond.”
The midfielder believes that the training intensity shown by his team mates suggests the Crows are on track for an impressive 2018, and that the camp will help to strengthen the connection within the squad at they strive to improve on last season’s runner-up placing.
“We know that on the footy side of things, our performance is exceptional, but to be able to develop our game off the field and become a closer unit, we think that’s the next step to getting there.”
