Being out of action for a long period of time, due to injury must be a nightmare for any sportsperson.
For some, they never return to the level they once were at but others somehow elevate themselves to greater heights as if they never missed the show at any point of time.
However, they all claim that the time you spend on the sidelines due to such injuries is one that you never forget as it tortures you psychologically even after recovery.
For Vipers defender Livingstone Mulondo, he has and is still enduring a lengthy layoff.
The 23-year old got injured during a training session last year and it is now 11 months since he was last in action for the Venoms.
After a tough road to recovery, Mulondo is nearly there and continues to rehabilitate despite the on going Coronavirus that has seen the halt of footballing activities throughout the globe.
Speaking to Vipers SC website, Mulondo said as much about his torrid time out and was grateful to the club administration for the more-than-average care and help accorded to him during this time.
Tell us about the process of your recovery?
I have gone through a lot since I got injured and seeing myself reach this stage of recovery gives great joy. I have had to make lots of sacrifices to achieve this status. I can now run, twist and turn perfectly.
How have you managed life since you got injured?
It is always important to have a tough character in the times of adversity. And the words of encouragement that kept flowing in from my fellow teammates kept me going. And with the club taking care of my bills, there have been no financial worries. I have only had to care about my personal healing process.
Which was your most touching moment on the sidelines?
Beside the pain you go through, there is so much emotional pain you get especially when you see your fellow players out there playing day in, day out and yet you remain seated out. That is more painful.
How would you rate yourself – in terms of fitness?
I am 70 per cent fit for now. I would like to continue following my doctor’s instructions. There is no need to rush for me as the country is still in a lockdown. I am taking my time and just doing the simple exercises the doctor recommended. I also want to be back as soon as possible.
How much have you missed being on the pitch?
The team bonding and the way we treat each other as one family is what I have missed most. The feeling of being on the pitch is unrivalled. Everyone’s wish as a footballer is to always to be able to play the beautiful game.
Your final remarks.
I am grateful to our patron Dr. Lawrence Mulindwa and executive who have been of great support to me and my family. If I say I wasn’t looked after well during this painful period then I would be lying. I am appreciative.
If he indeed returns before the end of the season, Mulondo is most likely set to win his first league title as the Venoms are currently marching onto the league crown.
They are four points clear of second placed KCCA FC with just five games to play in the campaign.
