During the interview, Dr McAleese highlighted the increasing prevalence of ACL injuries and the importance of developing robust injury surveillance data in Ireland to better understand trends and inform prevention strategies.

A key focus of the discussion was injury prevention. Dr McAleese outlined the important role that strength training, neuromuscular conditioning, agility work, and structured injury prevention programmes can play in reducing the risk of ACL injuries for athletes of all levels.

The conversation also explored the complex nature of ACL injuries. As these injuries are often multifactorial, Dr McAleese emphasised the need to identify and address modifiable risk factors that can help lower injury rates and improve athlete outcomes.

Advances in ACL treatment and rehabilitation were another important topic. Dr McAleese discussed the evolution of patient-specific surgical techniques and rehabilitation pathways, while highlighting the critical role of psychological readiness, multidisciplinary support, and confidence in helping athletes return to their previous level of performance.

Finally, the discussion addressed the growing concern around ACL injuries in young athletes. With teenagers particularly vulnerable, Dr McAleese stressed the importance of implementing injury prevention initiatives at grassroots and club level to help protect the next generation of athletes.