Dale Copley’s 2019 season is over with the 28-year-old Titans outside back today heading in for a shoulder reconstruction that will see him in rehabilitation for at least the next three months.
While a hamstring injury has kept the Aspley junior sidelined in recent weeks, Copley has been playing with a shoulder concern since the early part of the year with the decision made late last week to have a reconstruction in readiness for season 2020.
“It’s disappointing with the year being done due to the hamstring,” Copley said.
“I’ve been carrying a bit of a shoulder injury throughout the year, and it was time to have a look at what was going on with it.
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“I’m going to have it done and I’ll now have a lengthy (rehab) process ahead of me.”
The Titans’ leading try-scorer is no stranger to the rehab after shoulder surgery.
“I’ve had it done on my other shoulder twice, but this one is on my left,” he said.
“I’m a left-hander, so some daily chores will be avoided at the start. I should be ok after the first six weeks.
“I’ve got a few tears in my rotator cuff.
“It’ll be a slow process over the first three months, but I should be into everything by mid-December.
“I’ll do all the running in November and then increase the contact side of things (before Christmas).”
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With new Head Coach Justin Holbrook to arrive for the 2020 pre-season, Copley is well aware of the need to make a positive early impression.
“I have worked with Justin before, and I’m looking forward to him getting here,” Copley said.
“It’s always a bit of an anxious time when a new coach comes in, and while I’ll have to sit out the contact drills which will be frustrating, I’ll be able to be part of the main group in December.”
