Karly McNiece had to wait 707 days between VFLW games but has made a triumphant return

A persistent knee injury forced Karly McNiece to wait 707 days for her second VFLW game with Darebin Falcons but the young star was never going to give up on her football dream.

Karly McNiece in action for Darebin Falcons. Picture: Rob Lawson

Karly McNiece had to wait 707 days for her second game of VFLW football.

The Darebin star battled through two years of knee and ankle injuries, inspired by her love of footy.

But the wait was worth it — McNiece was best on ground in her second game back as the Falcons claimed a drought-breaking victory over Williamstown on June 22.

“It wasn’t easy. It was a long process but I had really supportive family and friends,” she said.

“I’ve had a few different diagnoses on (my knee). I’ve had surgery on it, and I had ankle (injuries) in between as well.

Karly McNiece in action for Darebin Falcons. Picture: Rob Lawson

“I’d grown up around footy and it was never really something I was going to give on.

“I always dreamt of playing VFL football for Darebin, so it really good to get back.”

After making her debut in 2017, McNiece returned to Darebin’s Northern Football League Division 1 team where her knee injury flared again.

After surgery, she missed the entire 2018 season before her long-awaited return to VFLW level in the Falcons’ loss to Collingwood.

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The following week McNiece 10 disposals, three marks, two tackles and line-breaking run earned coach Michael Ericson’s praise.

McNiece was just happy to be a part of a win.

“The group was really happy to get the win, we’d been struggling the first few rounds,” she said.

“It really came together for us and we managed to get over the top of Williamstown.”

Running around with her teammates was a driving force for McNiece through all the rehab and setbacks.

With three consecutive games under her belt, the speedy winger is looking forward to the rest of the season.

“It’s been all right, (the body) is holding up pretty well. I’ve been pretty sore but no complaints,” she said.

“Through the entire process the group has just been awesome, really supportive.

“I love playing for this club, I love playing footy. It’s been a ride but I’m just happy to be out there.”

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