Henry Playfair is excited to be back in the Sydney Swans line-up to play his first senior game in nearly two years, but in another sense he knows his challenge is just beginning.
The tall forward has been named in the Swans side to take on the Western Bulldogs at Manuka Oval this Saturday afternoon, after several strong showings in the reserves.
Playfair, who had chronic hamstring problems that eventually required surgery last year, said he was excited by the opportunity.
“I was talking to the club physio and a few other people today and it hit me just what I’ve been through to get back to this point,’’ Playfair said.
“There have been quite a few times when I thought I’d have to throw it away, but I know that playing this game is just another challenge. I’m back to the starting line,’’ said the 27-year-old.
Playfair played 11 games in 2008 but missed the entire 2009 season and had surgery to re-attach his hamstring tendon.
At the end of last season he was dropped off the Swans list, but then given a lifeline under new rules that allow clubs to list a mature age rookie.
“Most of last year I wondered where I was heading, and the operation had been my last chance,’’ Playfair said.
“Then in about October I said to Roosy that I might have to give it away and he said he understood, but there was a chance I could get back on the list. I spoke to a few people, including Ken Hinkley who coached me at Geelong, and they said you don’t want to die wondering.’’
So Playfair dedicated himself to doing all he could to get back in shape to play football at the highest level.
“The last few weeks, playing in the reserves, my body has felt better than it has for a few years. The surgeon told me it could take a year for the tendon to fully strengthen, and it’s coming up to a year now since the operation,’’ Playfair said.
“I’m really excited about playing but I know it’s just another beginning.’’
To read more about Henry's inclusion from today's pre-training press conference, click here.
Dan Hannebery also comes into the Swans side, as does Lewis Roberts-Thomson, who missed last week's Cats clash with hamstring tightness.
Jarred Moore (ankle) and Shane Mumford (suspension) will miss the Bulldogs clash, as will Ed Barlow. Ben McGlynn is also still out injured, however looks likely to return against Fremantle next week.
Round 8, Sydney Swans v Western Bulldogs
Saturday 15 May, 2.10pm, Manuka Oval
Sydney Swans team list:
B: Shaw, Richards, Kennelly
HB: Mattner, Grundy, Malceski
C: McVeigh, Kirk, Smith
HF: O’Keefe, R, Goodes, Kennedy
F: White, Bradshaw, Jetta
FOLL: Pyke, Bolton, J., Jack
Interchange: Hannebery, Playfair, Roberts-Thomson, Rohan.
Emergency: Bevan, O'Dwyer, Heath.
In: Playfair, Roberts-Thomson, Hannebery.
Out: Moore, Barlow, Mumford.
