Dive into Dan Birchall’s candid interview where he shares the physical, mental, and emotional challenges of the past year, his drive to return stronger, and the unwavering support from his family and Sale FC community.
1.Dan, with over 150 appearances for Sale FC, you’ve been a crucial part of the team. How has it felt to be sidelined since your Achilles injury in December ?”
DB: “The last 12 months or so have been by far the toughest of my career—physically, mentally, and logistically. Even before my injury, battling through perhaps one of our worst spells in the last 15 years at the club was a challenge we all bought into and emerged from with some good results.
As I’ve always believed, it’s even harder and more nerve-racking to watch it all unfold. I’ve dearly missed being out on the pitch and being part of the hunt.”
2.“how is the DB that signed in 2016 different to the one now?
DB: “The 2024 version of DB is probably more self-aware and much more adept at being the voice of a senior player. Before I arrived, I knew my place as a slightly younger and less experienced campaigner. Coming to Sale FC changed that somewhat—not necessarily immediately, but over time, I realized that I had a lot of games under my belt and a wealth of rugby experience to draw upon. I’m probably also a lot more willing to share knowledge and coach than before.
Earlier in my career, I was certainly in a mercenary mindset; any advantage I could get over another player meant I could ensure my own selection was safe. Now, I have a much better appreciation of how I’m a part of a whole, and that being part of the group’s successes, failures, and improvements is far more powerful than my own.”
3.“What motivates you the most to work through your recovery process and aim for a comeback? Are there any specific goals you’ve set for yourself?”
DB : “I’ve tried really hard not to think too far into the future in terms of getting back into a playing shirt. In my mind, we’re talking about such large chunks of time, with no guarantees, that it would probably drive me mad being fixated on any specific long-term goals. I’m just trying to focus on the next couple of weeks at a time and getting the best out of each session. In terms of motivation, I still have the drive and feel the hunger we all do as athletes to improve and go one better than the day before. The biggest motivator for me isn’t about reaching any specific outcome or achieving some sort of goal. I believe I’ve still got something to offer as a player and I just want to remain on the journey.”
4.“Aside from your injury, how have you been staying connected with the team and contributing to the club during your recovery period?”
DB : “I’ve only missed a couple of sessions or fixtures since my injury and have tried to contribute to the cause wherever I can. Whether it be Q & A with Steve Hanley before a home game, on the sidelines feeding information to coaches and players on match days, or in team meetings during the week at training,
I’m really grateful for everyone at the club and all the support and well-wishes they’ve given me. Particularly, Scott, James, and Trickey for inducting me into Alickadoo culture. Keepy, Tote, Briggsy, and Gaz for allowing me to see behind the curtain of the coaching team. Max, Rob, Charlie, and Chimi for keeping me occupied physically. Hughesy, Jake, Dicko, and Nick for all the lifts they’ve kindly given me. They’ve all definitely helped me keep my sanity.”
5.“Balancing your recovery and personal life can be demanding. How do you manage these challenges, and what support systems do you rely on to stay positive and focused?
DB : “It’s a really unique tightrope we tread at this level. We’re working really hard to develop and progress our working careers while at the same time trying to squeeze in enough training and preparation to compete with some full-time pros. There are also those of us who have young families to care for. If you speak to those who’ve made these transitions recently, you’ll quickly get an idea of how much it takes to be successful on all of these very different fronts. I’ve had to lean on my family a lot over these last few months. My parents have always been staunch supporters and have helped immensely. My eldest son has helped keep a lot of things in perspective and is a constant reminder of what’s important in life. Finally, my wife, Rachael, has been nothing short of immense. She’s cleaned my wounds, picked me up at my lowest, challenged and pushed me onward, and reined me in when I’ve gotten too excited or frustrated. All this while carrying our second child, who was born last week. A true force of nature, for which I am eternally thankful.”
Dan has re-signed for the 2024-25 season and is expected to return to training for approximately December. We continue to wish Dan a speedy recovery , working with Head Physio Charlie Boulton ,and can’t wait to see him out at Heywood Road again!