Keeping Newcastle’s AFL players moving, marking, and kicking with confidence

At Up N Adam Performance Training & Physiotherapy, we support AFL players across Newcastle — from juniors in school programs and community comps to senior club and representative athletes. AFL is one of the most dynamic sports: long-distance running combined with sprinting, jumping, tackling, and high-speed collisions. With these demands comes a high risk of injury, but the right physio approach can get you back on the field stronger and more resilient.

Common AFL Injuries We Treat​

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• Hamstring strains and tears

• Groin/adductor strains

• Shoulder dislocations and instability

• Ankle sprains

• ACL and other knee ligament injuries

• Overuse issues (patellar tendinopathy, shin pain)

Why AFL Injuries Happen
 

Aussie Rules combines endurance with explosive movement and heavy contact.
 

• Hamstring strains are frequent due to repeated sprinting and acceleration.

• Groin and hip injuries result from repeated kicking and twisting.

• Shoulder injuries often occur in tackles or when landing from marking contests.

• Knee and ankle injuries are common in contests involving rapid changes of direction.

How We Assess AFL players
 

We use sport-specific testing to understand strengths, weaknesses, and readiness for return.
 

• NordBord: hamstring testing for sprint capacity.

• VALD dynamometer: hip/groin and quad strength for kicking and stability.

• ForceDecks: vertical jump, landing symmetry, and lower-limb power.

• Agility and cutting screens: assessing change-of-direction and deceleration control.

Treatment & Rehab for AFL injuries
 

Rehab is designed around both the physical and game-specific demands of Aussie Rules.
 

• Hands-on therapy to restore mobility and reduce pain.

• Targeted hamstring, hip, and shoulder strengthening.

• Jump, landing, and marking drills to rebuild aerial confidence.

• Return-to-play programs including sprint work, agility drills, and contested contact prep.

Preventing Future Injuries & Building Performance
 

We help AFL athletes build durability for a long season.
 

• Hamstring resilience programs focusing on eccentric strength.

• Groin and hip stability training to protect against kicking overload.

• Shoulder robustness drills to prepare for contact and overhead marking.

• Regular VALD testing to track lower-limb power and asymmetry.

Supporting Newcastle’s AFL Community

From junior AFL academies to Newcastle City and local club competitions, we’re proud to support AFL athletes throughout the Hunter region.

Ready to Return to Footy?

Don’t let injury sideline your season.
Book your AFL physio session today!

Click here to read about Netball injuries, or return to all sports here.