After her 2024 campaign was cruelly cut short, Sharks fullback Jada Taylor is ready to take the field without injury this season.
Having undergone three shoulder reconstructions and ankle surgery prior to rupturing her ACL last year, Taylor has shown immense resilience. However, the 21-year-old said the knee injury was her most challenging setback.
"The mental side of it has been very tough," Taylor told sharks.com.au.
The rising star is beyond grateful to the club for the support they showed after she went down with the long-term injury in a Round 2 clash with the Eels.
"I'm pretty lucky, I've got a dual job (also working in the Sharks community department), so I'm always around the club," the Tamworth product said.
"The girls would pick me up and drop me off at places because I'm a long way from home. Immediately after (the injury), two of the staff members actually drove me to get scans on my knee.
"I am so far away from home, but I am at home as well."
Taylor continued her appreciation by highlighting how she "can't wait to repay" the faith as she looks to return in a season-opening clash with Parramatta at home.
It was heartbreaking for the speedster to watch from the sideline as her teammates played in a historic grand final against the Roosters, falling 32-28.
When asked the hardest part of being unable to play or train, Taylor mentioned seeing the team lose and having no bearing on the result.
"I definitely felt guilty in a way, but you can't control injuries," she added.
Despite her struggles, Taylor saw the bigger picture and realised she was in a fortunate position to come back and play professional sport.
"I've told the story about going with my mate Emma Verran to a couple of disability clinics and them being so worried that my knee was in a brace," she said.
"I remember thinking, these people would love to take the field at Sharks Stadium, but they never have the opportunity, and I'm kicking stones that I'm out for 12 months, so it really put it into perspective for me."
What made her persevere was her love for the game.
"When you're young, you start playing the sport because you love it. As you get older, you realise you still love the sport but you (also) love the people," she said.
"I love this team and there's no way I could ever rule myself out and retire at such a young age."
