Katelyn Cox is the heartbeat of Richmond.

With 22 games in the yellow and black already under her belt, she's been sidelined since sustaining an ACL injury that ruled her out of 2024.

But, with the new season fast approaching, Cox is readying herself for a comeback like no other.

Cox sat down with Richmond Media to discuss her ACL recovery and hopes for the 2025 season.

RICHMOND MEDIA: You haven't played footy for a while now since being drafted here in 2022. How are you going?

KATELYN COX: I'm feeling ready and confident.

I've put in an enormous amount of work. I have so much trust in the process and the people who have helped me get to this point. Physically and mentally, I'm the strongest I've ever been.

This has been one of the biggest challenges I've ever faced, but it's also been super rewarding. I've learned so much about myself through it and I'm really proud of how I've carried myself.

RM: You've already played at the elite level here at Tigerland, but it's been a while, so has anything changed or improved in your game since before the injury?

KC: My time away from playing gave me a chance to reflect, reset and really focus on both the mental and physical sides of my game.

I've spent a lot of time working with a Club psychologist and developed a really strong mindset off the field, which has made a massive difference to how I feel.

Physically, I'm fitter, faster and stronger than I've ever been. The entire medical and high-performance team have gone above and beyond to help me get here, and I feel like I've taken my game to a new level.

RM: Luckily, even though you've been injured, you've had some teammates around during rehab and recovery. How important have your teammates been to keep you positive and focused?

KC: Having teammates around during rehab made a massive difference. I was so lucky to be surrounded by an incredible group who kept my spirits up when I needed it most.

Monty (McKinnon) especially was a huge support. We were side by side through so many sessions, riding the highs and lows together. We kept each other motivated, accountable and celebrated every little win and big milestone.

Just having someone there who understood what I was going through made the world of difference and reminded me I wasn't alone.

RM: What have you enjoyed most about getting yourself right to play footy again, amidst the long rehab process?

KC: Rehab pushed my body and mind to a whole new level, but it showed me how strong I really am.

I've developed strong discipline around my training, recovery and mindset. I've learned to appreciate what my body is capable of, while discovering that I'm capable of more than I thought.

As tough as it's been, this experience has been incredibly empowering. It's reminded me why I love the game so much and how much it means to be back playing.

RM: How is the team as a whole looking, and who are you most looking forward to playing with this season?

KC: The team is looking really sharp at the moment. We have great depth, are super connected and there's a powerful energy driving us forward.

Everyone's fit and hungry. I'm just excited to be part of it again.

I'm excited to finally play alongside Ally Dallaway. She's one of my best friends, and even though it feels like we've been teammates forever, we've never actually played a game together.

RM: What are your personal hopes and expectations for the upcoming season?

KC: My biggest goal is just to be present and enjoy every moment. I've missed the game so much, and now that I'm back, I want to make the most of every opportunity.

This journey has reminded me how quickly things can change, so I'm approaching the season with real perspective and gratitude.