In the world of sports, injuries are an unfortunate reality.
For athletes, the road to recovery can be both physically and mentally challenging. Today, we share the inspiring story of Eloise, a Welsh international hockey player, and her journey back to the pitch after ACL surgery.
Eloise's hockey journey began at a young age, playing for Wales in the under 16, under 18, and under 21 age groups. Her dedication and hard work led her to achieve 76 senior caps. However, her career was met with significant setbacks due to injuries.
In 2012, Eloise faced her first major injury during her first senior Wales camp. She dislocated her knee and suffered a full ACL and MCL tear. This injury was a significant blow, especially as it occurred during her gap year, which she had dedicated to hockey.
The recovery process was arduous. Eloise recalls the challenges of watching her friends earn their first senior caps while she was deep in rehab.
The psychological impact of the injury was immense, but she found strength and guidance from her father, an ex-rugby player who had experienced similar injuries. His knowledge and support were crucial in helping her navigate the initial stages of recovery.
Eloise underwent surgery and began the long journey of rehabilitation. Despite the challenges, she made remarkable progress and returned to play halfway through her first year of university. Her hard work and dedication paid off when she was selected for Glasgow 2014.
However, her journey took another unfortunate turn. During a warm-up game before the tournament, she slipped and tore her meniscus cartilage. This injury forced her to withdraw from the Commonwealth Games and undergo another lengthy rehab process.
Despite these setbacks, Eloise's resilience and determination remained unwavering. She emphasised the importance of patience, proper rehabilitation, and not comparing oneself to others during the recovery process.
Eloise also highlighted the significance of a strong support network, including her S&C coach, physio, and course mates, who provided her with perspective and encouragement.
Eloise's story is a testament to the power of resilience, patience, and a positive mindset in overcoming adversity. Her journey is an inspiration to athletes and anyone facing significant challenges.
