Blackfriars Old Scholars footballer Matt Brincat makes remarkable comeback from knee injuries
Two knee reconstructions in two years usually spell the for most local footballers – but not Matt Brincat. The Blackfriars Old Scholars star is back on the field and has achieved a feat no one else in the Adelaide Footy League can match.
City
Don't miss out on the headlines from City. Followed categories will be added to My News.
Two knee reconstructions in two years would be enough to test the mental and physical durability of any sportsperson.
But Blackfriars Old Scholars footballer Matt Brincat has not only bounced back from two crushing setbacks but has been a revelation during this COVID-19 restricted season.
He is the only player in the Adelaide Footy League’s A-grade competitions (division one to seven) to have played all nine games and feature in the best players each time.
Brincat, 31, a six-time best and fairest at the Hounds, said a network of strong support had been the driving force behind his successful return.
“When you do your knee, and twice for me, the mental aspect is as tough as the physical one,’’ Brincat said.
“I remember the date of the first one, July 28, 2018, and the second one was in a trial game at Seaton in 2019.
“I missed the entire 2019 season but I was driven just to get out and play with my mates and have team success.
“I have had amazing support from my family, mum Carmen, partner Emily and people like my physios Chris Hampel and Tristan Chai, the club and coach Jarrad (O’Riley) who have shared my journey and the frustrations that go with it.
“The later start to this season because of COVID worked in my favour and gave me a bit more time to be ready to play.’’
Brincat also was treated by Melbourne and internationally recognised knee surgeon Professor Julian Feller who also works with elite athletes, especially AFL players.
Blackfriars coach Jarrad O’Riley said Brincat had been an inspiration to the club.
“Coming back from two knee reconstructions the way he has worked at it has been outstanding,’’ O’Riley said.
“He is just a very god person and someone we appreciate having around.
“He’s well known and respected around the place.’’
While many clubs have battled injuries and getting numbers to field teams Blackfriars is on fire.
Brincat’s Hounds finished the minor rounds second on the division six ladder – losing just two matches – and will take on St Paul’s Old Scholars in the qualifying final at home this Saturday.
It is also the first time in the club’s history that it has fielded a C-grade team this season.
Blackfriars introduced a women’s team last season and goes into finals with all four of its teams to contest the major round.