When Port Adelaide’s Jason Horne-Francis exited the training track on crutches this week, there were understandably some anxious fans and teammates. The scene that played out at Alberton as the young gun hobbled from the field, marshaling the medical staff away, suggested something serious in his foot. By all accounts, Horne-Francis was in for a tough 2025 season. That came to an end in July when he had to receive surgery on the same foot.
Even after seeing those alarming images, Horne-Francis is hopeful for a successful rehabilitation. He tweeted shortly after the surgery, indicating optimism that the injury would not derail his pre-season preparations too much. The well-liked, talented athlete hopes to return to running before Christmas. This extended timeline would allow him an ample amount of time to be ready for the 2024 season.
As he left the practice pitch, Horne-Francis gestured towards his taped-up foot, indicating where most of the pain resides. He walked out midway through a closed door session with many of the older players. With Connor Rozee and Jaidyn Stephenson attending as well, Jaidyn should be on board with pre-season training shortly.
Besides player fitness news, Port Adelaide recently released new jumper numbers for a number of players heading into 2022. Jackson Mead, who wore 44 last year, has officially changed numbers. Christian Moraes no longer wears 31, and neither does Corey Durdin — he’s switched from 19 at Carlton. Jacob Wehr, the artist formerly known as an apprentice with GWS, becomes the first player ever to wear 10.
This transformation coincides with Port Adelaide entering a new era with newly appointed head coach Josh Carr. In a nod to the club’s history and in recognition of Travis Boak’s extraordinary contribution over 19 seasons, the team will retire Boak’s number 10 guernsey temporarily.
“In recognition of Travis’ extraordinary contribution to our club across 19 seasons, we will retire his number 10 guernsey for a period of time,” – Matthew Richardson
“This allows us to appropriately acknowledge his legacy and reflect on an incredible career which was full of resilience and loyalty to the Port Adelaide Football Club.” – Matthew Richardson
As the pre-season rolls on, supporters will be focusing with baited breath on Horne-Francis’s continued recovery. Analysts will be watching very closely to see how the new leadership changes the team’s culture. Besides, the Port Adelaide crew have some massive weeks ahead. They’re preparing to have what they expect will be their best season yet!
