Navigating Turbulence: Zac Williams’ Journey of Resilience with the Carlton Football Club
‘My sister played a big part in getting me to where I am today.’
Carlton’s dynamic player, Zac Williams, is emerging from what he describes as a “turbulent” 12 months, a term that may even downplay the extent of his challenges.
Entering the previous season, Williams felt he was at the peak of his game. However, fate dealt him the dreaded blow of an ACL injury, a nightmare scenario for any AFL player, forcing him to watch his team from the sidelines for the entire season.
Yet, this setback was just the beginning of Williams’ trials. In June, his beloved sister, Sammy, succumbed to cancer after a long battle. Her passing, especially after the return of her terminal diagnosis in April, profoundly affected Williams and his family.
Reflecting on the tumultuous period, the 29-year-old shared his journey on Carlton’s Summer Session podcast, highlighting the invaluable support of the Carlton Football Club during his ordeal.
Despite the immense personal loss and physical challenges, Williams is determined to channel the pain of 2023 into motivation for the upcoming season. He credits his late sister and mother for shaping his character and driving him forward.
With resilience and resolve, Williams aims to honor his sister’s memory by wearing a black armband throughout the season, drawing inspiration from both his personal struggles and his rehabilitation journey.
Acknowledging the emotional toll of being sidelined while dealing with personal hardships, Williams found solace in the camaraderie of his teammates, even as he navigated the solitary path of rehab.
While his tenure at Carlton has been marred by injuries, including his recent ACL setback, Williams remains optimistic about the future. His marriage to Rachel in a lavish ceremony in January marked a bright start to what he hopes will be a much better year in 2024.
