Bendigo: Jarryn Geary gets all clear for early Eaglehawk return

Eaglehawk’s big off-season signing, Jarryn Geary, is back playing earlier than expected after a horror run with injury ended his AFL career.

Former St Kilda captain Jarryn Geary has been given the all clear to start playing for his original club, Eaglehawk, in the Bendigo league.

His AFL career, which included taking over as St Kilda captain from Nick Riewoldt in 2017, ended on 207 games after a horror run with injuries.

Geary didn’t play a match last year due to a shoulder injury and was restricted to only three games the previous year.

Jarryn Geary celebrates after kicking a goal for St Kilda in 2020. (Photo by Quinn Rooney/Getty Images)

He signed as assistant coach of Eaglehawk late last year with question marks on how many games he would play in 2023.

But he will take the first step on the comeback trail in a practice match against Central Murray league reigning premiers Kerang on Saturday.

Eaglehawk coach Travis Matheson said Geary’s early return was a huge bonus.

“We were going to be happy if it happened, but certainly understanding if it didn’t,” he said.

“To be playing in a practice match we are rapt.

“He’s been given the all clear to play by his physio.

“One of the things we were looking for was that on ground leadership he can provide for us.

“We’re still not putting any expectations he will play every week and just see how things pan out.”

Eaglehawk coach Travis Matheson. Picture Yuri Kouzmin

Geary’s brother Kallen has also returned to Eaglehawk this season with the club determined to return to finals action.

Eaglehawk plays South Bendigo in round one on April 15.