In late March, Amare Hall, junior Kent State Track and Field long and high jumper, feared the worst. During a long jump event at the University of Cincinnati, Hall planted his foot and slipped on the board, causing his knee to bend inward and backward.
“My initial thought was, ‘I tore my ACL,’” Hall said. “‘I’m screwed.’”
A tear would mean surgery and a lengthy recovery process.
After an MRI revealed a hyperextension but no tear, Hall felt a wave of relief but recognized he had a long road ahead. To salvage a year of eligibility for competition, Hall was redshirted due to his injury, meaning his season was over.
“I had to be very mentally tough,” Hall said. “It was more of not being able to do what I normally do that messed me up.”
The recovery time for this injury depends on the person as it can range from two to four weeks to six to twelve months in more severe cases, such as Amare’s.
Physical therapy has been a crucial part of his rehab. He said each session was focused on building back strength in his knee while dealing with the mental struggles of missing most of the season.
“I couldn’t sleep for a couple of weeks,” he said. With a strong mindset, Hall persevered in his rehab process, which is extremely important for a stronger return.
Adam Barrett, senior personal trainer and exercise science major, said the most important part of the process is to get back to the starting point before the injury. “If you rush back, you can increase the chance of re-injury,” Barrett said. “As long as you trust the process, stay patient and work hard, you will return to where you were, hopefully stronger.”
As Hall continues to return to full strength, he said he has been able to remain positive.
“I have always relied on God and the church,” Hall said. “You have to believe that even though this is a tough time, you can return.”
Goals have always been a huge part of Hall’s success.
“Goal number one is to get back to being the guy that I have been. Right when I had my chance to show that I was a great athlete, I got injured,” Hall said. “I want to prove to everyone that I am great and I am that guy.”
Hall said he plans to return at full strength in the spring. As his recovery continues, he has full confidence he will come back stronger than he was.
“I want to be an inspiration, and I have to prove that I can be the inspiration that someone needs,” Hall said.
Michael Bodzenta is a reporter. Contact him at [email protected].
