There’s nothing a footballer hates more than being out of the game and in rehabilitation for an injury, that’s why you can’t wipe the smile off Max Warren’s face.

The 20-year-old was supposed to be spending another two weeks on the sidelines after breaking his collarbone, but has been able to bounce back in record time.

“I was ecstatic yesterday when I heard the surgeon say I was all good to play this weekend,“ Warren told NMFC.com.au.

“It was a good result in the end since I was looking at six weeks originally, the physios and the surgeon have done their job really well so I’m thrilled to be back so quickly.”

The young rookie had a plate inserted in his collarbone after a heavy collision with a Sandringham player in the VFL on June 29th.

Despite his own dedication and hard work during the recovery period, Warren was quick to shift the praise onto those who helped him come back so fast.

“It helps with the medical staff giving you the direction, really I was just the sheep they were the shepherd, I just followed what they said,” Warren commented.

“I also give a lot of credit to my development coach Josh Drummond, he was really good with his encouragement and told me to keep sticking at it and that always gave me the belief to get better.”

In his second year at North, Warren has one goal in mind; to become the best player he possibly can be through hard work.

“I have felt a lot more confident this year. A lot more consistent with my intensity which has been important.

“I’ve taken a step here and there. I guess it just boils down to working hard and getting the best out of yourself.  I’m just looking to put every effort into everything I do and I’ll relish any opportunity that comes my way.  And ultimately it helps because the club are so supportive.

“I just need to work hard and the rest will take care of itself."

Warren is preparing for a tough return match on Sunday, with a few key North Ballarat regulars missing from the line up.

“With Luke Delaney going up to the seniors, which is really good for him, it will be a bit of a challenge for our backline but we’re up for the task.

“I’m really looking forward to getting out there against Coburg, it will be quite a challenge but I’m really looking forward to it.”

Other Kangaroos Liam Anthony, Taylor Garner, Mitch Wilkins and Cameron Richardson will also have their chance to shine on Sunday as the eighth placed Roosters hone in on the VFL finals.

Kieran Harper won’t be relaxing despite Werribee having a bye, instead he will play for North Ballarat’s reserves team alongside international rookie Eric Wallace.

Harper is ineligible to play for North Ballarat’s seniors due to his status at Werribee, but the arrangement allows him much needed match practice.

Coburg Tigers V North Ballarat
Mantello Holden Oval Coburg
Reserves – 11am, Sunday 4th August
Seniors - 2.00pm, Sunday 4th August