Broadmeadow midfielder back after career's longest injury break
Bailey Wells has returned to football after snapping his quad tendon, the first injury to sideline him in about 18 years.
Bailey Wells, the star Broadmeadow Magic midfielder, missed most of 2025 after snapping the rectus femoris tendon in his right quad. Wells continued playing through pain for a couple of months before the injury got worse, forcing him to take time off.
Wells spent 18 months doing intensive rehab, three to four sessions a week, to rebuild his strength from scratch. Wells returned to play a handful of games late in the 2025 season and is now back in the Australian Championship, which Magic are playing in for their second time.
Coach Jim Cresnar praises Wells for his exceptional vision and game smarts. The injury was hard on Wells emotionally, who watched last year's historic Championship from home and felt envious missing out.
Magic have started unbeaten, with a draw against APIA, a penalty shootout win, and a 2-1 victory over Avondale.
- 18 months
- Rehabilitation duration
- 3 to 4 per week
- Session frequency
- About 18 years
- Injury-free streak ended
- Two in 2024
- Brisbane Roar trials
Why it mattersA key player returning from a major injury can shift the balance for a team making a national championship push.
AustraliaWells' return strengthens Broadmeadow Magic's squad as they compete in the Australian Championship, a major milestone for the regional NSW club.
✓ Claims checked against the source and corrected before publish. checked 2 h ago
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