St Kilda have received a heartwarming pre-season boost with the appearance of star forward Tim Membrey.
Membrey — who was in the leadership group and has been a vice-captain of the club – has returned to training after he shocked the AFL world when he dramatically pulled out of the team’s first final this year against the GWS Giants.
The 29-year-old had been battling mental health challenges at the time in what was described as a “delicate” situation.
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Ahead of the game, senior coach Ross Lyon told 3AW that he got a call from the club doctor at 8.16am.
“Can’t say a lot except to say overnight he was unwell. We put triage support in place as a club,” Lyon said.
“I met with the players … just had to sort of take control of it really. You don’t want 40 conversations.”
Club champion and assistant coach Lenny Hayes also spoke to media when the scary news first broke.
“He’s got a mental health challenge at the moment that’s sort of reared, and that’s all I can really say out of respect to him,” Hayes said.
“He’s in really good hands at the moment and our thoughts are with him. There’s not too much more we can say, but for us, we need to focus on the game at hand.”
Lyon later said Membrey was “in really good care, ongoing care, and we’re really optimistic that, ultimately, he’ll be in good shape again in the near future”.
There were concerns for Membrey’s playing future after the incident and Lyon hinted that some players were rattled and confused by the ordeal.
But by the end of October Membrey confirmed he was on track to continue to his football career and would be ready for a full pre-season.
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Membrey battled a knee injury this year and only managed seven games. He also became a father for the second time.
He trained with the team on Monday and took part in running and goalkicking drills.
On Sunday fans were thrilled when a photo of him at the club emerged on social media.
“Seeing him smile, makes me smile,” one fan said.
“That’s made my day!” another said.
The players took part in a 3km time trial in the 30-degree heat on Monday with first-round draft pick Darcy Wilson crossing the line first in just his second week at the club.
Young stars Marcus Windhager and Mattaes Phillipou also performed strongly, while consistent time trial performers Ryan Byrnes and Matthew Allison rounded out the top five.
Time trial specialists Bradley Hill and Mason Wood did not take part in the run, while captain Jack Steele (ankle), Max King (shoulder), Brad Crouch (knee) and Dan Butler (ankle) also trained away from the main group.
If you need help in a crisis, call Lifeline on 13 11 14. For further information about depression contact beyondblue on 1300224636 or talk to your GP, local health professional or someone you trust.