Family, friends, and both former and current AFL players convened at the West Coast Eagles’ headquarters in Perth to bid farewell to Adam Selwood, who passed away in May.
His death occurred just three months after his twin brother Troy’s passing.
Among those pictured at the memorial were former Eagles Nic Naitanui, Josh Kennedy, and Will Schofield, alongside 2006 premiership teammates David Wirrpanda, Chris Judd, Ben Cousins, and Daniel Kerr.
Chris Judd at Adam Selwood’s memorial service. Getty
Ben Cousins arrives at the memorial service for Adam Selwood. via Getty Images
Geelong legend Tom Hawkins was also in attendance, alongside Fremantle coach Justin Longmuir.
While Troy Selwood’s memorial was a public event, Adam’s family opted for a more private farewell.
Following Adam’s death, tributes flooded in. Brother Joel shared a heartfelt Instagram post featuring several photos and the caption “rest up, love you brother. Look after each other”.
Magpies coach Craig McRae ensured his team played on after the news broke, although assistant coach Scott Selwood was unable to participate in the match.
After the game, McRae struggled to hold back tears.
The order of service booklet is on display at Adam Selwood’s memorial. via Getty Images
“It’s dreadful; there’s a profound sense of sadness. We thought we were doing the right thing by protecting the players, but I’m not sure if that was the best approach. However, we informed the entire club right after the game,” he shared.
Visibly emotional, McRae expressed his condolences to the Selwood family.
“I just want to extend my love to the Selwood family,” he said before thanking the media and departing the press conference.
The tragic loss of the Selwood brothers has sparked calls for a dedicated mental health round within the AFL, with former Swans and Demons coach Paul Roos among those advocating for the initiative.
“It wouldn’t hurt. Having a mental health round can only be a good thing,” Roos stated during an interview with Wide World of Sports.
“We shouldn’t wait for tragedies to occur; we need to establish systems that prevent such events from happening. Often, our reactions come only when faced with adversity.
“If players openly discuss their mental health, it establishes normalcy around the conversation. If there is a mental health round, it sets a precedent at all levels of football, which is crucial.”
“Players serve as role models, whether they embrace that role or not. Elite athletes across sports are viewed as role models.”
“If the AFL implements a mental health round and encourages players to speak up, it will undoubtedly make a difference. There’s no doubt about that.”
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