INJURED Collingwood forward Sean Rusling might have gained an appreciation for coaching in the past four years, but it's not something the unlucky young gun aspires to do on a full-time basis.

The 21-year-old, who's season has been ruined by injury for the fourth year running, has spent considerable time shadowing the club's coaching staff as he nurses the shoulder that has so far stalled his once promising career.

This year, Rusling will not play after having his left shoulder rebuilt for the third time. Like he's done for the past three seasons, he'll again take on a behind-the-scenes role that he believes has greatly broadened his knowledge of the sport. 

"I've learned a lot more about the tactical side of the game, because I've sat in the coach's box a lot and listened into their side of things while I've been injured," he said.

"I've learned how important the little things are in games, and I try to get involved with the game day stuff, but I try to distance myself a little bit from some of the week-to-week things, purely because when you're not playing, it becomes almost boring.

"You've got to figure out ways to make things easier for yourself."

Rusling said he still has passion for the game, despite having fought his body every season since being drafted by the club in 2004. However, it's not a passion that will extend beyond his days as a player.

"I definitely wouldn't be a coach. That's the last thing I'd do. It's too hard," he laughed.

"I reckon once I finish playing football that will be it for me."

His future intentions might not include a role as a mentor, but Rusling has still learned how to cast a critical eye over his teammates' performances.

"We're a bit up and down, and below our own expectations this year," he said.

"I think in the last game against Hawthorn, we might have found out where we're at a bit. Even though we didn't play very well, everyone was quite shocked to lose by 60 points.

"We're regrouping, and the club is making every effort to make sure we get things back on track."

The Pies have lost three of their past four matches, which is something Rusling has found particularly difficult to sit back and witness.

"When we're losing, it's very hard to stand and watch because you want to get out there and help them," he said.

"It's harder to watch them lose than win. When they win, you're just happy for them, but when they lose, you want to get out there and do something."

The young forward will now be in a sling for the next four weeks, after having the season-ending operation a fortnight ago.

While clearly frustrated with the fact his fourth consecutive year will be decimated by another upper body problem, Rusling remains realistic "there are worse things that could happen" and can sympathise with another season-long casualty in St Kilda's Matt Maguire.

"I suppose it's better than being on crutches," he said. "But it's all the same because it stops you playing footy.

"I know [Maguire's] pain and frustration that goes with it. That's the main thing; you're initially disappointed and then you become frustrated with what you've got to deal with for the rest of the year.

"It's so hard. But it does let you see it's just a game, and it's the game you love, but it gives you a chance to see and do things outside of footy.

"So there can be positives to come from it. I've got a few things going on outside of footy, so I'm keeping occupied with that.

"It's hard watching the boys play every week because I want to be out there with them as well, but it's alright now.

"I'm in a pretty good place about it all. There's a lot worse things that could happen."

Click here to read about Rusling's other passions as he recovers from his latest injury.