Collingwood star Nick Daicos opened up on the toll of injuries he faced during the finals series, as Collingwood lamented their luck. He opened up big dreams for the future. Even with critical setbacks, Daicos is hopeful about the next season ahead. Beyond that, he’s a competitor who is extremely hungry to help his team by any means necessary.
Daicos always knew he was carrying bone stress in the fifth metatarsal on his right foot throughout finals. Tragically, the severity of this injury was not realized until after post-season X-Rays. Had this been an in-season injury during the regular season, he would have needed several months out, if not more.
“It’s definitely been annoying at times too,” said Daicos. I mean, I want to do all that I can do, but they really had to make me take a little time off.
Beyond the foot injury, Daicos gritted his way through the finals with a separate major injury – a hip-bone bruise – showing incredible toughness. He communicated his commitment to the team by texting coach Craig McRae about going all in for the 2026 season the day after Collingwood’s preliminary final loss to Brisbane.
As he prepares for pre-season training, Daicos is looking to only complete a little more than half of his sessions. He’ll be taking a short holiday break, well earned over Christmas. Treatment for his surgery wasn’t needed, but less time on the DL to recover. He’ll have a soft return to training following his rehabilitation trip to Dubai. While there, he formed a tag team with his teammate Isaac Quaynor.
It’s definitely a great feeling to be back out on the field! This is a new chance and a clean slate, so everyone’s super motivated,” Daicos said.
Daicos has given plenty of credit to his best mate Quaynor for taking an active role in that development. In the process we deepen our connection over our training experiences. He’s one of the best runners in the AFL, so anytime I get to run with him is good for me. It meant that for every Daicos noted. Quaynor also acknowledged their mutual influence on each other’s performance: In terms of running wise, I may push him and all aspects of the football he pushes me.
Despite what was a calm off-season focused on rehabilitation, Daicos is already fired up for the challenge ahead. Now, he’s thirsty to do some serious damage when that opening round in March comes around! More importantly perhaps, he took confidence from the feeling that Collingwood are still very much in that premiership window. As the team prepares for the new season, Daicos’ determination and commitment will be pivotal for their aspirations.
