Western Bulldogs coach Luke Beveridge has dismissed inquiries from reporters concerning forward Jamarra Ugle-Hagan during Wednesday’s training session.
Beveridge reiterated that the 23-year-old, who has recently returned to club training, is still quite some distance away from being match-ready.
Ugle-Hagan had been absent from the club since April, even entering a health clinic outside of Victoria to address mental health challenges.
Western Bulldogs coach Luke Beveridge. Western Bulldogs
With the former number one pick now back at the club, he became a focal point during Beveridge’s press conference.
“He’s a long way from being ready to play,” Beveridge remarked on Wednesday.
“That’s all I’ll say.”
When probed further, Beveridge stated he wouldn’t be giving ongoing updates on the situation.
“With Jamarra, if this is going to be a weekly query, you will just be wasting your time,” Beveridge emphasised.
“He won’t be playing at either AFL or state league level for some time. There’s no point in continuing to ask, alright?
“And you’re probably going to craft your own narratives about it, and that’s your prerogative.
“This is about our upcoming match against Sydney, so let’s keep the questions focused on that for now.”
Jamarra Ugle-Hagan addresses his challenges. Instagram
Ugle-Hagan recently spoke candidly about his mental health struggles on the podcast hosted by former Brisbane players Mitch Robinson and Rhys Mathieson.
“All the noise actually pushed me to a rehab facility for my mental health,” Ugle-Hagan revealed on the Rip Through It podcast.
“I reached a point where I had to hand my car over to a friend so I couldn’t drive. I just didn’t feel safe behind the wheel.
“There were moments when I would think about – to be perfectly honest – not even wanting to continue living.
“I went through a tough period where I didn’t wish to leave my house. I truly hit rock bottom.
“Definitely (I had suicidal thoughts). Those thoughts surfaced quite frequently.
“Especially during times when I felt completely isolated and alone, as if I had been cast out in public.”
Ugle-Hagan is anticipated to undergo a month of training before he can be considered for VFL selection.
It is unlikely he will make an appearance for the Bulldogs in the AFL by 2025.
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