Harley Bennell will play his first AFL game in 722 days on Sunday at Domain Stadium, but the talented midfielder revealed that the wait for his Fremantle debut could have been much longer if it wasn’t for some guidance from senior coach Ross Lyon.
Suffering multiple calf injuries since his arrival at Fremantle via the 2016 NAB AFL Trade Period, Bennell revealed that he considered putting a line through 2017.
Instead, the former no.2 draft pick fought his way back, playing four games at WAFL level prior to earning his selection for what will be Fremantle’s final game at Domain Stadium.
“I wasn’t going to quit, but I was going to sit out for the rest of the season,” Bennell said.
“But I sat down with Ross and went through a few things.
“I’m just happy I didn’t put the boots away for the season.
“It was really important, I’ve had Ross in my corner since day dot and it’s been the best of me and he backs me in and believes in me.
“I couldn’t thank him enough.”
After playing such an important role in his recovery, Bennell said he was glad that Lyon was the one to deliver the news he had been waiting for.
“I happened to walk past Ross in the gym and he gave me the all clear, the thumbs up and I couldn’t have been happier,” Bennell said.
“I went back to my locker and grabbed my phone and messaged mum to tell her that I’ve got the all clear from Ross.
“I’m sure she was very emotional, she’s just very happy for me to get back out there and put the purple jumper on (wearing) number 13 and, hopefully, get a win in it this weekend.”
It’s fitting that Bennell will play his home game in front of his friends and family, with his support group playing a crucial role during some difficult periods.
“(They’ve) been really good, mum and I speak every day along with my brothers and sisters,” Bennell said.
“I’m just really looking forward to getting out there on Sunday and running out in front of them.
“It will be emotional come Sunday, but I’m there to play footy and play my role for the team and hopefully, get a win.”
