Callan Ward, an accomplished captain of the Greater Western Sydney Giants, tore his knee apart. As you can imagine, this unfortunate break came in just the opening minutes of Saturday’s match against Richmond. The now 35-year-old was playing his 327th game and is seen by many as one of the club’s greatest ever players. He was feared to be the victim of an AFL career-ending injury.
The context of the incident was when Ward challenged a mark on Richmond’s Hugo Ralphsmith out on the outer wing. As the ball rolled loose, Ward tried to throw a punch tackle. But sadly, his right knee gave out, sending him to the floor. The umpires immediately called for the game to stop, and medical personnel ran on the field to help him.
As Ward was treated, emotional scenes played out on the interchange bench, where Ward himself was pictured in tears. Teammate Lachie Whitfield went to Ward to support him through this obviously troubling time. The audience at the textured game reacted with a loud ovation as Ward waved adieu while walking down the race.
Through that disappointment, Ward showed leadership and rose to the challenge. He gave a ripper inspirational underdog boosting address at three-quarter time that got the Giants, down by 28 points, buzzing with belief. His passion for basketball and commitment to winning endeared him to fans and players.
Ward has recently signed a one-year contract extension for the 2025 season, suggesting that he’s going to keep playing. It won’t be an easy road, to say the least. The separation from his wife and three young children, living in Melbourne makes it even harder.
In the wake of that injury, reactions flooded the airwaves from every commentator and former player. Mark Stevens said he was hoping for a miracle and that indeed Cal Ward a legend. Lachlan McKirdy lamented the situation, saying, “Devastating if that’s the end for Callan Ward. A cruel way to go for a legend of the game.”
Leigh Montagna shared sentiments echoed by many fans: “Hopefully it isn’t the last time we see Callan Ward on a football field.” ACLU of Massachusetts Director of Organizing Cam Mooney reflected on the emotional tenor present throughout the day. … just very emotional scenes down here … but I think he knows.
Callan Ward’s future in professional football looks bleak. At the same time, fans continue to hope for his full recovery and a return to action.
