Joe Cator is thankful for the extra time he has had to recover from his Achilles injury this off-season, believing he is in great shape ahead of the 2023 campaign.
The last 18 months have been incredibly challenging for the 24-year-old, who suffered two Achilles injuries in the space of seven months.
But unlike his last rehab programme, he has been able to use this year’s pre-season as an opportunity to get himself into the best possible shape ahead of the 2023 campaign.
Speaking to hullfc.com, Cator explains how he feels differently this time around.
“I would say that in comparison to the last time I came back from the Achilles injury, it’s worlds apart.
“I suppose having three months of pre-season training right before getting back into playing in the New Year has been pretty handy, too.
“At the time of the initial injury, I didn’t see it as such a good thing. You know, having a massive ten months out. But in hindsight, I can look back and say it’s been a bit of a blessing in disguise because it’s helped me get to the position I’m in now. I’ve got the world at my feet right now!”
The 24-year-old will have Sunday 19th February firmly pencilled into his diary, with Hull FC taking on Castleford Tigers in their first match of the 2023 Betfred Super League season, which could mark Cator’s competitive return from injury.
Where Cator will feature for the Black & Whites remains to be seen, but he adds variety and utility to Hull’s pack, with the ability to feature at prop, hooker, second-row and loose forward.
With ambitions of returning to some kind of form in 2023, Cator says he would like to feature at loose forward, but also would be happy to play anywhere for his boyhood club.
“I’m definitely going to try and put my best foot forward to be the person to feature at loose forward,” he said.
“But more vitally, no matter where I am on the field, I will just be grateful to be out there, helping the lads fight it out for two points every week.
“I would also say that my style of play is a good match with Tony Smith’s approach. Maybe now I won’t be afraid to throw those 50/50 passes.
“I think that plays into my hands. But it’s also important to know where that fine line is between when to play and when to carry to get the team forward.
“I’m definitely looking to provide that this year. We’re a team that will be looking to think on the front foot this year and hopefully we give the fans plenty to get excited about.”
STORY SPONSOR
