Stephen Coniglio Recovering After Multiple Surgeries, Plans to Resume Running Next Month
GWS Giants vice-captain Stephen Coniglio is recovering after undergoing two surgeries, including facial surgery for five fractures sustained during a collision in the semi-final against Brisbane. He also had shoulder reconstruction and plans to resume running next month. Coniglio expressed gratitude for the support of his family during this challenging recovery period. Fellow vice-captain Josh Kelly and ruck Kieren Briggs are also recovering from surgeries ahead of pre-season training starting November 25.
GWS Giants vice-captain Stephen Coniglio is making significant progress after experiencing a challenging six-week recovery period due to two surgeries following a serious injury. This ordeal has involved extensive rehabilitation and support from family.
Coniglio's Injury and Surgeries
Stephen Coniglio sustained multiple facial fractures during the semi-final match against Brisbane while colliding with teammate Aaron Cadman and Lions co-captain Harris Andrews. The impact was severe enough to pause the game for five minutes as Coniglio was treated on the field before being substituted. Following the incident, Coniglio also suffered a concussion, complicating his recovery process. Due to swelling, he underwent facial surgery over a week later, which was deemed successful and essential for his healing.
Support and Personal Reflections on Recovery
Throughout this challenging time, Coniglio has publicly expressed his gratitude towards his wife Rebecca and their one-year-old daughter Amira for their unwavering support. He described these six weeks as perhaps the most difficult of his career but emphasized how their presence helped ease the burden of his recovery. Coniglio shared on social media that he is committed to returning stronger than ever and has expressed feelings of being blessed for his family's support.
Updates on Teammate Recovery
In addition to Coniglio's situation, fellow vice-captain Josh Kelly has also resumed running following hip arthroscopic surgery, with plans to intensify his rehabilitation for the upcoming pre-season. Ruckman Kieren Briggs, who recently underwent knee surgery, is expected to return to running before Christmas. The GWS Giants are scheduled to begin their pre-season training on November 25, initially for first-to-four-year players, while the remainder of the squad will join the following week.
