The days that followed moved with a rhythm, unlike the earlier months. Where the first stretch of recovery had been a battle—against pain, against uncertainty, against time—these last two months felt almost like a glide. Still demanding, still meticulous, but fueled now by momentum. Purpose.
Zachary had transitioned into more dynamic routines—integrated strengthening, full-weight-bearing agility drills, and resistance-band training to improve proprioception.
His gait had returned to a natural, effortless flow, the stiffness in his right ankle all but gone thanks to the consistency of his regimen and the precision of the Broström-Gould procedure. Plyometric work was now standard—box jumps, short sprints, lateral shuffles. Still no contact play, but the ball had finally returned to his feet.
It felt like breathing again.
