O’Neill: Return stronger
Brad O’Neill is motivated to returning from injury stronger than before as he continues his rehabilitation at Robin Park Arena.
The 22-year-old, who suffered a season-ending ACL injury in Round 19, stepped up his recovery before Christmas as he returned to running on grass. Providing an update at the Club’s training centre, O’Neill expressed his delight on hitting a ‘massive’ milestone.
“The body and mind are feeling very good,” O’Neill updated. “All you think about post-surgery is running but you can only start when you’re ready. It’s taken a lot of hard work but it’s a positive position to be in which is credit to our physios.”
The Warriors Scholarship graduate, who sustained an ACL injury whilst playing in an Academy fixture, explained how the setback in 2019 has helped shape his mindset this time around.
“I knew what to expect,” O’Neill revealed. “Those first weeks after surgery are the toughest but it’s important not to look too far ahead and instead focus on short-term goals.
“My mind now is telling me that I’ve done the first half, so I can do the second. I’m dead set on knowing whatever the physios give me, that I’ll be able to do to the best of my ability to come back stronger than before.”
The former Halton Farnworth Hornets amateur also expressed the importance of working alongside Willie Isa, who is recovering from an ankle fracture dislocation injury sustained in April.
“You know you’re going to experience tough days so it’s about embracing those and enjoying the good ones,” O’Neill said. “The strength of having a partner is that you have someone to help you get through the tough days.
“I’ve been in with Willie throughout and having someone to work alongside makes the process easier. There’s been times when I’ve been frustrated with wanting to do more, however, Willie will be the one to make sure I understand why. It’s all a learning curve in which I hope I’m that person for Willie through his injury.”
The hooker experienced a successful start to the 2024 season which saw O’Neill lift the Betfred World Club Challenge and Challenge Cup trophies before he made his international debut in June as England beat France at the Stade Ernest-Wallon.
“They were all proud moments and massive milestones in my career,” O’Neill revealed. “Last year was special but sad because of the way it had to end.
“It was tough having to watch from the stands, however, I’m proud of what the group went on to achieve and I’m delighted for those lads who got the opportunity. These are special times and I’m so proud to be a part of this group.”
O’Neill penned a new five-year contract last month in a deal that will see him remain at the Warriors until 2027. When speaking through his extension, O’Neill highlighted the Club’s culture has a key reason behind his decision.
“Our culture is the positive mentality around the place,” O’Neill said. “That mentality enables us to work incredibly hard whilst enjoying the time we have together. Our honesty as a group creates a culture where everyone pushes each other to achieve the best – that’s the Wigan Way.”
