**Famous Injury Calls: Inside 11 Historic Moments from AFL Grand Finals** This title captures the essence of the article’s focus on notable injury calls from AFL Grand Finals. It emphasizes both the historical significance and the memorable nature of the

Grand Final Risks: When Injured Players Defy the Odds

September 24, 2025

The intensity of the Australian Football League (AFL) Grand Final week is frequently enough amplified by the compelling narratives of Players racing against time to recover from Injury. This year,Lachie Neale’s persistent effort to participate in Saturday’s decider has drawn significant attention,mirroring similar struggles of seasons past. The pressure to contribute to a premiership team, despite physical setbacks, creates some of the most gripping stories in the sport.

The High Stakes of Grand Final Fitness

Neale, recovering from a torn calf sustained during the Lions’ qualifying final against Geelong, has shown remarkable progress. His potential return adds another layer of intrigue to a Grand final already impacted by injuries to Tom Stewart (concussion) and Jarrod Berry (shoulder). The prospect of a dual Brownlow medallist taking the field despite a significant Injury would undeniably be a momentous occasion.

Notable Injury Battles in Recent Grand Finals

However, the decision to play through Injury is never straightforward. Examining past cases reveals both triumphant returns and cautionary tales. Hear’s a look at some of the most memorable Injury battles leading into recent AFL Grand Finals:

Steve Johnson, 2011: Geelong’s Resilience

in 2011, Geelong’s Steve Johnson faced a grueling challenge. Barely able to walk due to a severe knee Injury sustained in the preliminary final, he relentlessly pursued his availability for the Grand Final. Despite uncertainty throughout the week, and aided by painkilling injections and hyperbaric chamber treatment, Johnson delivered a pivotal four-goal performance, swinging momentum for the Cats.

cyril Rioli, 2014: Hawthorn’s Determination

Hawthorn’s Cyril Rioli demonstrated exceptional commitment in 2014. After suffering a hamstring tear earlier in the season, he undertook a rigorous 10-week rehabilitation program to be fit for the Grand Final. Rioli started the match and, even though his impact was limited, his mere presence represented a significant victory over adversity, culminating in a Hawks triumph.

Jack Gunston, 2015: A Swift Recovery

The following year, Jack Gunston mirrored Neale’s situation. Recovering from an ankle Injury sustained in the qualifying final,he underwent a demanding fitness assessment and was ultimately cleared to play. Gunston responded with a dominant four-goal, 10-mark performance against West Coast.

Dale Morris, 2016: Playing Through Pain

Western Bulldogs defender Dale Morris played through the 2016 finals series with a broken back, a revelation that stunned fans after the Grand Final. Morris’s dedication,supported by medical staff,allowed him to make a crucial lunging tackle on Lance Franklin in the dying moments of the Bulldogs’ historic win.

mitch McGovern, 2017: A Difficult Exclusion

Adelaide’s Mitch McGovern experienced the heartbreak of being ruled out of the 2017 Grand Final due to a hamstring Injury. The decision, made on the wednesday of Grand Final week, deeply affected McGovern and contributed to his subsequent trade to Carlton.

Jeremy McGovern, 2018: A Heroic Effort

Jeremy mcgovern battled a serious Injury in 2018, playing through an internal bleed around his lungs and ribs sustained in the preliminary final. His dramatic late arrival to the grand Final parade, while attempting to focus on his preparation, became a symbol of his dedication, ultimately leading to a premiership-winning performance.

Phil Davis,2019: A Calf Strain cost

Phil Davis faced uncertainty leading into the 2019 Grand Final due to a calf Injury. Despite completing a fitness test, and believing he was able to play, he ultimately didn’t feature in a heavy defeat for Greater Western Sydney, later revealing the severity of the tear to be far greater than first thought.

Steven May,2021: A Hamstring Gamble

Melbourne’s steven May took a risk in the 2021 Grand Final,playing with a pre-existing hamstring concern. While he re-aggravated the Injury during the match, his perseverance contributed to Melbourne’s premiership victory.

Max Holmes,2022: A Conservative Approach

In contrast,Geelong adopted a cautious approach with Max Holmes in 2022,ruling him out of the Grand Final due to a minor hamstring strain. The decision prioritized long-term health over immediate impact, ultimately proving successful for the Cats.

Taylor Adams, 2023: injury Heartbreak

Collingwood’s Taylor Adams missed the 2023 Grand Final due to a hamstring strain and was subsequently overlooked during the 2024 finals. Similarly, teammate Dan mcstay was sidelined with an MCL strain, adding to the team’s Injury woes.

Callum Mills, 2024: A Captain’s Sacrifice

Sydney captain Callum mills faced a difficult decision in 2024 after sustaining a hamstring strain at training. Despite believing he was fit to play, a joint decision with medical staff led to his exclusion from the decider, prioritizing the team’s overall well-being.

Player	Year	Injury	Outcome
steve johnson	2011	Knee	Played, 4 goals
Cyril Rioli	2014	Hamstring	Played, Substituted
Jack Gunston	2015	Ankle	Played, 4 Goals

Did you know? The AFL’s medical officers play a critical role in assessing player fitness, frequently enough facing immense pressure from players, coaches, and fans to clear athletes for the Grand Final.

Pro Tip: Teams carefully weigh the risk of exacerbating an existing Injury against the potential benefits of having a key player on the field. The decision-making process frequently enough involves detailed medical assessments, player feedback, and strategic considerations.

Frequently Asked Questions

• What is the typical recovery time for a torn calf muscle? A torn calf muscle typically requires 6-8 weeks of rehabilitation, though this can vary based on severity.
• How do AFL teams manage the risk of playing injured players? Teams employ comprehensive medical assessments, conservative rehabilitation programs, and careful monitoring of player symptoms.
• What role does pain management play in these decisions? Pain management techniques, such as injections, can temporarily alleviate symptoms, but they don’t address the underlying Injury.
• Are there long-term consequences for playing through injuries? Yes, playing through Injuries can increase the risk of chronic pain, reduced performance, and premature retirement.
• What is the AFL’s concussion protocol? The AFL has strict concussion protocols that mandate a minimum rest period for players who sustain a concussion.

As the AFL Finals series reaches its climax, the stories of players battling Injury serve as a reminder of the physical and mental demands of the sport. Whether they take to the field or remain on the sidelines, their dedication and resilience inspire fans and shape the narrative of the Grand Final.

What do you think – do the potential risks outweigh the rewards when a player returns from Injury for the Grand Final? Share your thoughts in the comments below!

What where the immediate consequences of Bob Keddie’s high bump on Alex Jesaulenko in the 1970 VFL Grand Final?

Famous Injury Calls: inside 11 Historic Moments from AFL Grand Finals

The impact of Injuries on AFL Grand Final History

AFL Grand Finals are renowned for their intensity, skill, and dramatic moments. But sometimes, it’s not the extraordinary goals or courageous marks that define a game, but the heartbreaking injuries. These moments can shift momentum, alter strategies, and ultimately, decide the premiership. This article delves into 11 of the most famous – and often controversial – injury calls in AFL Grand Final history, examining their impact and lasting legacy. We’ll cover key incidents, the players involved, and the immediate aftermath, offering a comprehensive look at how injuries have shaped the biggest game of the Australian football season.

1.1970: Bob Keddie & Alex Jesaulenko – A Clash of Titans

The 1970 VFL Grand Final between Collingwood and Carlton is legendary, but the collision between Bob Keddie and Alex Jesaulenko remains a talking point. Keddie’s high bump on Jesaulenko left the Carlton star concussed and sidelined.While controversial at the time, it wasn’t deemed illegal under the rules of the day. This incident fueled debate about player safety and the evolving rules surrounding high contact in Australian Rules Football.

2. 1989: Dermott Brereton – The Courageous Comeback

Dermott Brereton’s courageous performance in the 1989 Grand Final for Hawthorn is iconic, but it came at a cost. He suffered a severely broken jaw in the first quarter after a collision with Gary Buckenara. Despite the injury, Brereton played on, famously spitting blood onto the ground and kicking five goals. This display of grit and determination cemented his status as an AFL legend.

3. 1997: darren Jarman – A Shoulder Charge Controversy

The 1997 Adelaide Crows vs North Melbourne Grand Final saw Darren Jarman involved in a controversial shoulder charge on North’s Glenn Archer. While Jarman wasn’t reported on the day, retrospective analysis and debate continue to surround the incident, questioning it’s legality and impact on the game. The incident highlighted the challenges of officiating in fast-paced AFL matches.

4. 2004: Ben Cousins – The Ankle Strain

Ben Cousins,the Brownlow Medallist and West Coast Eagles captain,suffered an ankle strain early in the 2004 Grand Final against Port Adelaide. While not a catastrophic injury, it significantly hampered his mobility and effectiveness, impacting West Coast’s ability to control the midfield.The Power ultimately won, and Cousins’ injury was seen as a contributing factor.

5. 2008: Matthew Scarlett – The Knee Injury

geelong’s Matthew Scarlett suffered a knee injury in the 2008 Grand Final against St Kilda. The injury, sustained in a marking contest, forced him off the field and raised concerns about the impact on geelong’s defensive structure. Fortunately for the Cats,they were able to withstand the loss and secure the premiership.

6. 2010: Adam Selwood – The Early Blow

Adam Selwood, Geelong’s captain, suffered a significant shoulder injury early in the 2010 Grand Final rematch against St Kilda. The injury severely limited his impact on the game, and while Geelong ultimately won, Selwood’s absence was keenly felt. This incident underscored the importance of leadership and key players in Grand Final contests.

7. 2011: Andrew Mackie – The Concussion Scare

Geelong’s Andrew Mackie suffered a concussion in the 2011 Grand Final against Collingwood. The incident sparked renewed debate about concussion protocols and the need for greater player protection. Mackie was sidelined for a period, highlighting the serious consequences of head injuries in contact sports.

8. 2013: Taylor Hunt – the Ankle Break

Hawthorn’s Taylor Hunt suffered a broken ankle in the 2013 Grand Final against fremantle. The injury was a devastating blow for Hunt, who had worked hard to earn his place in the team. While Hawthorn went on to win convincingly, Hunt’s injury served as a stark reminder of the physical toll of AFL football.

9. 2015: Taylor Duryea – The Head Clash

The 2015 Grand Final between Hawthorn and west Coast saw Taylor duryea involved in a head clash that required medical attention. The incident led to a temporary stoppage and raised concerns about player safety. Duryea was able to return to the game, but the incident highlighted the risks associated with high-speed collisions.

10. 2016: Tom Boyd – The Shoulder Dislocation

Tom Boyd, the key forward for the Western Bulldogs, dislocated his shoulder in the 2016 Grand Final against the Sydney Swans. Despite the injury, Boyd played on, contributing to the Bulldogs’ historic premiership victory. His resilience and determination became a symbol of the team’s underdog spirit.

11. 2018: Jack Steele – The Ankle Roll