Carlton coach Michael Voss has teared up in a heartwarming moment as he informed Zac Williams he would break his 18-month AFL absence.
Voss confirmed on Monday night’s AFL 360 Williams would play in the side’s Opening Round encounter against Brisbane, marking the comeback from significant adversity.
The latest in a line of injuries, Williams suffered an ACL tear last February, before his sister Sammy passed away in the middle of the year.
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Vision of Voss informing Williams and the wider playing group of his clearance to play was shown on Tuesday’s AFL 360.
“Zaccy, you’re gonna play this week, you’re gonna play,” he said.
“You’ve got me (emotional), mate,” he added as he fought back tears.
“I was on a plane to your home, for your sister’s funeral. God, it was excellent by the way. It (this moment) was a long way away.
“It certainly didn’t need to be football, it was about life for you for a while. I didn’t know if we were ever gonna get back to you mate. It’s been a big 12 months for you, 18 months for you. That’s the journey you’ve been on.
“Sitting on that plane and seeing you on that particular day, I thought ‘Geez.’ I’m so proud of you mate. So proud of you.”
Blues captain Patrick Cripps, speaking on AFL 360 on Tuesday, said he had rarely seen Voss so emotional.
“I just think it shows you, footy clubs – how special they are. You have your family but you’re around these people for long periods of time. You build such strong connections with people which is what makes it so special,” he said.
“I actually tuned in last night to have a listen to Vossy, he said that’s why he coaches. It’s much more than just wins and losses, it’s giving people that news.
“But also if you hear Zac’s story. He lost his sister last year which is so challenging, obviously coming back from a knee. Recovering from a knee is minor compared to what he’s gone through last year. To rehab during that time, grieve, and then to see him back.
“He’s a guy that footy brings the best out of him. You can see the energy, he smiles… and he plays like that too. He plays free, he’s got that dash and creativity.
“I actually texted him before the Geelong game, I thought he was playing but he was actually playing the week after! He was just so pumped to play.
“Obviously he was emotional when Vossy told him. It was awesome to see.
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