A long road to recovery begins at home
AFL legend Tony Modra has shared an encouraging update after surviving the devastating truck accident that left the football world fearing the worst.
The Adelaide Crows and Fremantle Dockers great has now been discharged from hospital and will continue his rehabilitation at home, marking an important milestone in his recovery after suffering life-threatening injuries in June.
In a heartfelt message released through the Adelaide Football Club on Tuesday, the 57-year-old thanked everyone who had supported him and his family throughout the difficult weeks following the accident.
Overwhelmed by an outpouring of kindness
Modra said he is only now beginning to understand the enormous wave of love and encouragement that has surrounded him since the crash.
He described himself as “overwhelmed” by the compassion shown by friends, supporters and complete strangers, saying the messages of support have meant more than words can express.
The AFL great also paid tribute to the members of the public who rushed to help him immediately after the accident, providing critical first aid before emergency crews arrived.
He thanked paramedics, medical specialists and hospital staff for the care that helped save his life and guide him through the early stages of recovery.
A terrifying accident that shocked Australia
Modra was seriously injured after a large tree branch crashed through the windscreen of the truck he was driving near his sheep and cattle farm, about 90 kilometres south of Adelaide.
The freak accident left him with severe facial injuries, including damage to his jaw, cheekbone and eye socket.
He underwent two major operations after being airlifted to Flinders Medical Centre, where he spent weeks recovering under specialist care.
Focusing on healing
Although his recovery remains ongoing, Modra said his progress has been encouraging.
As he continues rehabilitation away from the public eye, he and his family have asked for privacy while he concentrates on regaining his strength.
His latest update has reassured countless supporters who have followed his recovery since news of the accident first emerged.
A football icon embraced by the entire AFL community
One of the game’s most electrifying forwards, Modra remains one of the AFL’s most beloved figures after kicking 588 goals across 165 matches for Adelaide and Fremantle between 1992 and 2001.
Following the accident, tributes poured in from across the football community, with support extending well beyond club rivalries.
While still in hospital, Modra recorded an emotional message ahead of the Showdown between Adelaide and Port Adelaide, thanking not only Crows supporters but also Port fans for their kindness.
He encouraged everyone to enjoy the match, embrace the friendly rivalry and, in a message made especially poignant by his own experience, reminded fans to “drive home safe.”
Now safely back with his family, Tony Modra begins the next chapter of his recovery, buoyed by the extraordinary support of a football community that continues to stand firmly behind one of the game’s most admired champions.
