Adelaide Crows' promising young midfielder Jake Soligo has undergone a minor surgical procedure to address an irregular heartbeat, casting a shadow over his availability for the upcoming AFL season opener. The 23-year-old, who has been managing his training loads in recent weeks, is scheduled to return to training next week as he targets a spot in the team's first match on March 14.
Club Takes Swift Action on Heart Condition
On Thursday, the Adelaide club escalated Soligo's treatment after consultations with both internal medical staff and external specialists. This decision followed a period of careful monitoring, highlighting the seriousness of cardiac issues in professional sports. Veteran teammate Taylor Walker expressed concern, stating, "Anything to do with your heart's very serious, mate. Obviously he's had some irregular beats and it's been a bit stop-start for him the last little period. We'll certainly wrap our arms around the little fella and hoping he'll be alright for Round 1."
Pre-Season Preparations and Team Updates
As the Crows gear up for their final pre-season clash against Fremantle in Mandurah this Saturday, just 13 days before their home-and-away opener against Collingwood at the MCG, other players are also navigating fitness challenges. Walker, 35, confirmed he will play against the Dockers, citing his limited remaining games and enjoyment of the sport. Meanwhile, Sam Berry has been managed due to soreness, creating an opportunity for untried onballer Charlie Edwards.
Injury concerns extend to other squad members: Sid Draper will participate only in a SANFL trial as he recovers from a groin problem, and James Peatling faces uncertainty for Round 1 with a low-grade hamstring strain.
Port Adelaide Faces Setbacks Ahead of WA Trip
Across town at Alberton, Port Adelaide has encountered its own hurdles before their pre-season match against West Coast in WA on Sunday. Miles Bergman has been ruled out with a foot issue, while Jack Lukosius is in serious doubt after limping out of training with a groin complaint. Lukosius, who played just seven games last season following his move from Gold Coast, adds to the team's injury woes.
On a positive note, Jason Horne-Francis, dealing with a foot concern, completed the training session and is expected to play managed minutes. Assistant coach Hamish Hartlett emphasized that despite these setbacks, the Power will treat the game as a full dress rehearsal for Round 1, aiming to integrate returning players like Mitch Georgiades and Zak Butters.
Impact of New AFL Ruck Rules
Hartlett also commented on the AFL's controversial new ruck rules, which have influenced team selection. He noted that Dante Visentini appears to have overtaken Jordon Sweet due to his athletic advantages, particularly in vertical leap. "I think Dante from an athletic perspective, in terms of vertical leap, has probably got a slight advantage in that area," Hartlett explained. "But Sweety's just a big man who's more than capable of jumping himself. Clearly the more athletic ruckmen are going to be advantaged by that rule."
As both Adelaide clubs navigate these pre-season challenges, all eyes will be on Soligo's recovery and the broader implications for team dynamics heading into the 2025 AFL season.
