At NDB, sports are a huge part of student life, but with intense competition comes the risk of injuries. One of the most challenging setbacks athletes face is an ACL injury. The anterior cruciate ligament is a major stabilizer in the knee, and tearing it often requires surgery followed by months of rehabilitation. For many athletes, recovering from this injury is not just a physical challenge but also an emotional one.
Recovery lasts from six to 12 months, depending on the severity of the injury and the commitment to physical therapy. During this time, athletes are unable to participate in their sport, which can be frustrating. The daily grind of physical therapy exercises, stretching, strengthening, and balance work requires patience and determination. For students who are used to competing multiple times a week, sitting on the sidelines can feel like a major loss.
However, the recovery journey also teaches important lessons. Many students find themselves becoming mentally tougher, learning resilience, and appreciating the sport they love even more. While they might miss an entire season, they often return stronger, with a new perspective on teamwork and perseverance. Coaches and teammates also play a critical role, offering encouragement and keeping injured athletes connected to the team environment.
Athletic Trainer, Laz, has helped so many of our athletes tremendously. “I always try to be encouraging, always try to adjust their training. So if it’s too hard one day maybe we’ll try to make it easier that day. But always, always being there to support.”
For students recovering from ACL injuries, the path back to the field or courts is a long one, but it’s also filled with small victories along the way. These small milestones remind them that recovery is possible, even if it takes time. Senior student-athlete Sophia Nielsen discusses the significance of these milestones. She says, “Make milestones, and appreciate the time you are given. Especially while you are recovering, those little milestones really mean something.”
Ultimately, overcoming an ACL injury is not just about returning to sports, but about proving to themselves that they are capable of pushing through setbacks and coming back stronger than before.
