In the eleven games Charlie Cameron played in his first year at the Brisbane Lions, he instantly endeared himself to supporters for his fearless approach on the field and competitive spirit.

Cameron’s season was cut short in Round 11 in the Lions' loss to North Melbourne. The forward hobbled off to the Lions' bench with a foot injury early in the game and did not return.

Scans would later reveal he had ruptured the Lisfranc ligament in his foot and he would require surgery, ruling him out for the rest of the season.

“It’s been good but the injury is a little bit of a setback. That’s life, that’s footy,” Cameron told lions.com.au earlier today.

The 24-year-old had successful surgery in June and has made sure he has been keeping busy, to take his mind off the disappointment of missing the year.

Cameron has been an important member of the NEAFL coaching staff, under Coach Mitch Hahn. Tomorrow they will play in an elimination final, with Cameron coaching from the boundary line.  

“Coaching the NEAFL boys is something I’ve enjoyed over the last couple of weeks, helping out the young boys in the forward line,” Cameron said.

First-year players and forwards Connor Ballenden, Tom Fullarton and Toby Wooller have all been boosted by his knowledge and experience.

In terms of his rehabilitation, Cameron’s recovery is tracking along well. On Monday he will have another operation to remove the pins in his ankle and expects to be running in two weeks.

“Those are the things you look forward to, little milestones like that,” he said.

He is aiming to set himself up for a big pre-season and cannot wait to run out for the Lions again in 2019.