Lonergan’s recovery hits setback. Cat back in hospital

Andrew Mathieson
BATTERED Cat Tom Lonergan’s recovery from removal of a kidney suffered a setback when he returned to Geelong Hospital yesterday.
The young Cat had endured fits of vomiting and dehydration after leaving hospital on Tuesday.
A football club spokesperson said Lonergan would remain under observation until further notice.
Lonergan underwent emergency surgery after backing into a pack marking contest in Geelong’s round 21 clash with Melbourne at Skilled Stadium on August 26.
He was rushed to hospital after losing several litres of blood.
The 22-year-old’s playing future appeared in doubt after he spent the subsequent days in a medically-induced coma.
Days after the incident, Cats coach Mark Thompson was hopeful Loner-gan would make a full recovery but said the club would not jeopardise his health.
“Ultimately, it’s going to be Tom’s decision with his family and friends and we’re going to support him,” he said.
“We’re going to offer him the chance to play, that’s for sure.”
Geelong has also fined Brad Ottens $5000 on Tuesday after he was caught drink-driving more than twice above the legal blood alcohol limit.
Police stopped the enigmatic tall was stopped for a breath test in Doncaster just after 1am on Saturday morning finding a blood alcohol content of .116.
Ottens now faces the loss of his licence for 11 months and a $450 fine.
Geelong chief executive officer Brian Cook said Ottens’ actions were “unacceptable”.
Ottens will now receive education on trauma caused by drink-driving.
Ottens met Cook, Thompson and the club’s leadership group, who determined the appropriate punishment.
“There is no excuse for my actions and it is now up to me to win back the respect that I’ve lost from this incident,” Ottens said.
“I am truly sorry and I understand the impact that drink driving has on people’s lives.”
Geelong reserves will now prepare to face Williamstown in the VFL Preliminary Final on Sunday.