It was a relatively innocuous contest, something that happens several times a game, but it nearly put an end to Michael Barlow’s career just 14 games in.
In Round 14, 2010, Barlow was running at full pace towards Fremantle’s attacking 50 at Domain Stadium, his eyes on the ball as he attempted to mark.
Tragedy struck when he collided with then teammate Rhys Palmer.
In the hard to watch moments following the collision, Barlow tried to stand but his leg buckled below him.
It was a devastating injury but particularly tragic for a player who had fought hard to get into the AFL and in his debut season, was a blossoming prospect.
Barlow was sidelined for more than a year, making his comeback in late 2011.
He is now on the eve of playing his 100th game against the Suns on Saturday.
Senior coach Ross Lyon said his ability to overcome a serious injury and follow his dream, despite being initially ignored in the Draft, was testament to his character.
“(He’s) not had an easy 100,” he said.
“He came in the hard way, he was rejected for a while but does it with work rate and heart.”
Barlow trained with Essendon and St Kilda during the 2009 pre-season but was not drafted until Fremantle selected him as a mature-age recruit in the 2009 Rookie Draft.
Lyon said Barlow impressed the competition during his first season that included a game-high of 33 touches in his Round 1 debut.
“We marveled at him when he came in, thinking who’s this young bloke off the rookie list?” he said.
“Tragedy struck him through an injury but to overcome it in the manner he has speaks volumes to his work ethic and passion.
Lyon said the club’s staff was instrumental in supporting him during his rehabilitation.
