- GWS Giants midfielder had two surgeries in hospital
- Including one on the face that had five fractures.
- The veteran is expected to return to training in December
GWS Giants veteran Stephen Coniglio has shared several confrontational photos from his hospital bed after enduring the “toughest six weeks” of his decorated football career.
Coniglio, 30, is recovering from two separate surgeries, including one on his face, which left the midfielder with five fractures.
The 30-year-old suffered a shocking injury in a collision with teammate Aaron Cadman and Lions co-captain Harris Andrews during the AFL final.
The vice-captain also suffered a concussion in the incident.
With the swelling in his face so severe, Coniglio had to wait more than a week before undergoing surgery, while he needed specialized care to also evaluate his left eye.
Incredibly, Coniglio also underwent shoulder reconstruction.
Sharing a series of photos of his recovery on instagramConiglio thanked his wife Rebecca and one-year-old daughter Amira for being by his side.
“Perhaps the most difficult and challenging six weeks I have ever had in my career would have been much more difficult without the support of my two angels every step of the way,” she posted.
GWS Giants veteran Stephen Coniglio is pictured with his daughter Amira after undergoing surgery for a serious facial injury.
Coniglio also underwent shoulder reconstruction and called the last six weeks the “most difficult” of his career.
Coniglio thanked his wife Rebecca and one-year-old daughter Amira (right) for their continued support.
In the photo of Coniglio leaving the field after the blow that left him with five fractures in his face
‘Recover, reflect and plot how I am going to come back stronger and better than ever. Always blessed. See you soon.’
Coniglio received supportive comments from the likes of his GWS teammates Lachie Whitfield, Toby Bedford and Josh Kelly.
Current Swans star Taylor Adams also sent his best wishes.
Coniglio, who made his AFL debut with the Giants in 2012 after being selected second overall in the 2011 AFL national draft, is aiming to apply in December as is preparing for its 14th AFL season in 2025.
His return will be cautious. Adelaide Crows great Rory Sloane was forced to retire last year due to a series of eye injuries that resulted in a detached retina.
Meanwhile, Giants players are unlikely to quickly forget their final season.
Adam Kingsley’s men blew a 27-point lead in the qualifying final against Sydney, and were then beaten by eventual premiers Brisbane Lions, despite leading at one point by 44 points.
Early 2025 major markets have GWS at $9 to win its inaugural flag, behind Brisbane ($8) and Hawthorn ($8).
