Wodonga coach Jordan Taylor has made the startling revelation that his playing career was at the crossroads last year.
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After being plagued by hamstring injuries in 2018-19, Taylor underwent two operations during the COVID-19 layoff in a bid to get his body right.
Despite only recently turning 27, it was during his recovery that he contemplated calling it quits on his playing future.
"I wasn't really sure if I was going to play this year at all," Taylor said.
"It's hard after having 18 months off and not doing the running, not doing the pre-season, you are more susceptible to injury.
"Especially with soft tissue injuries which can often reoccur.
"I didn't lack the passion to get back to playing.
"But I did question in my own mind if my body could stand the rigours of getting through a season.
"After just turning 27, I should be in the prime of my playing career."
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Taylor's worst fears were confirmed when he succumbed to a calf injury after only two matches with the Bulldogs.
The key defender has spent the past five rounds on the sidelines but is confident he will return after this week's inter-league bye.
After finishing with the wooden spoon in 2019, the Bulldogs are a lot more competitive and have a 2-5 record nearing the half-way point of the season.
Taylor said he was satisfied with the Bulldogs' improvements so far.
"There has been some promising signs although we haven't taken a big scalp yet to make a statement," he said.
"But I feel we have been competitive against the heavyweights of the comp.
"I'm confident if the good sides don't come to play we can surprise them and spring an upset.
"As a young group we are only going to get better but having a young list is not an excuse and we expect to win most weeks."
