Changing Lanes For Tigers Ruckman – Elastoplast Inspiring StoryWednesday, July 2, 2025 - 9:29 AM

Former Brisbane Lion Kalin Lane has taken the first steps in his recovery from a knee reconstruction as he resumes his career with Claremont in the Sullivan Logistics WAFL competition.

Lane made an impressive comeback in the Reserves against West Perth last month, collecting 15 disposals, 15 hit outs and kicking two goals.

“I have managed just the one Reserves game so far and it’s been great to get back into a more game based routine,” Lane said.

“The body has pulled up well, and I’m starting to build that match fitness and timing again.

“The goal is definitely to push for League selection although I am still really fresh off rehab so I am just easing back into it.”

The 205cm ruckman was selected by the Lions in the 2021 mid-season Draft but was de-listed last year suffering the ACL injury while playing in the VFL.

“It happened during July last year, just one of those awkward landings in a marking contest,” he said.

“Straight away I knew something wasn’t right and emotionally it was tough.

“Sitting out for that long is hard on any athlete but I had a really strong support network around me.

“My partner Ruby, my teammates, family, and the club staff  all contributed in a big way to getting me through a tough period.

“I tried to focus on small goals throughout the rehab to stay motivated and get me through each day.

Having spent countless hours working on a return to the game, Lane now feels confident his knee can withstand the demands of playing.

“The rehab went relatively well and while it has been a long process I’ve hit all the key milestones and I’m feeling stronger every week,” Lane said.

“The knee is holding up well in training and now under match conditions, and I’m gaining more confidence in it with each week.”

Lane, who hails from the Great Southern, has no regrets about his time at the Lions.

“It was a great environment to be part of, really professional and a high standard every day,” Lane said.

“I learned a lot from the senior guys and the coaching staff and obviously, breaking into that side was tough because of the depth and talent in the group, but I definitely grew a lot as a player during my time there.”

A former basketballer who knocked back a college scholarship in the United States to pursue his football dream, the 23 year-old hasn’t ruled out a return to the AFL in the future.

“As a ruck, I know I’ve got plenty of time left, and I’m still really hungry to compete at the highest level,” he said.

“Right now, the focus is on playing consistent footy and developing a bit of love for the game that I definitely lost touch with during the past 12 months.

“I am trying not to put any expectations on what I can achieve in the next chapter of my footy career.”