Former Geelong and Sydney forward Daniel Menzel says there’s still plenty that can be done to support injured footballers.
The 28-year-old endured a torrid run with injury throughout his career, suffering four ACL injuries before battling his way back to AFL level.
He moved from Geelong to Sydney at the end of 2018 but only managed seven games this season before being delisted.
While praising the help he received throughout his numerous injury battles, he said nothing could be done to solve the frustration high-level athletes feel by being sidelined.
“The support and network (when you’re injured) is definitely there,” he said on SEN SA Breakfast.
“Being an AFL player is a pretty good job, but it feels like when you’re injured and for such a long time, it’s completely opposite and it’s one of the worst jobs you can be in.
“You just want to be out there training with your teammates and be out there playing, that’s the reality of it.
“It’s really hard to change how you feel about that, the support is there and it’s getting better. Particularly with psychology in our game and the way it’s going, it’s making a big difference.
“But there’s still a complete lack of knowledge in that area. It’s good (the support for players) is going in (the direction that it is), it’s changed so much in the 10 years I’ve been in the game but there’s still a long way to go."
Menzel will play for Central District in the SANFL next year, linking up with brother and former Carlton and Adelaide player Troy.
Listen to Daniel Menzel's chat on SEN SA Breakfast in the player below.