Bartel’s Solution for AFL Fixture: Tackling the Macho Stigma Amid Selwood’s Tragic Passing

Jimmy Bartel has added his voice to the growing calls for the AFL to introduce a dedicated mental health round in light of the tragic passing of West Coast Eagles legend Adam Selwood.

Selwood, aged just 41, passed away on Saturday, only three months after the heartbreaking loss of his identical twin brother, Troy, who took his own life.

The football community honoured the Selwood family over the weekend, with West Coast holding a minute’s silence and donning black armbands in tribute.

Following Selwood’s death, there has been a surge in advocacy for the AFL to designate a mental health round in the season schedule to shed more light on this critical issue.

The current season features Spud’s Game—a tribute match organised by St Kilda to honour club icon Danny ‘Spud’ Frawley, who passed away in 2019. This event seeks to raise significant awareness and funds to support those battling mental health challenges.

When asked about the possibility of incorporating a series of mental health-focused matches into the AFL’s schedule, Bartel suggested extending the concept of Spud’s Game to encompass an entire round.

“Spud’s Game does exceptional work in raising awareness and fostering discussion,” he shared with Nine’s Today. “St Kilda has spearheaded this initiative, and it’s something we could expand to include every match in that round. It’s a straightforward solution.”

“Similar to the NRL and other sports across Australia, we have a significant platform at our disposal to challenge the outdated ‘tough guy’ stereotype that insists men should suppress their emotions and keep their feelings bottled up.”

“Our goal is to encourage open communication, to remind people they are valued, and to share their struggles openly.”

“As the saying goes, a problem shared is a problem halved.”

Bartel commended the heartfelt message and tribute from West Coast captain Oscar Allen after their team’s 28-point victory over St Kilda.

“While it’s fantastic to win a game of footy, we have lost a legend of our club,” Allen expressed to Fox Footy.

“Mental health is such a pressing issue in society right now. I’ve encountered my own mental health challenges this year, and I’m grateful for the tremendous support I’ve received… I encourage anyone who is struggling to reach out, whether it’s to a helpline or simply checking in with friends.”

In light of Selwood’s passing, Bartel urged anyone grappling with mental health issues to seek help and work to dismantle the stigma surrounding it.

“The emotions are incredibly intense, not just for West Coast but throughout the broader AFL community,” he remarked. “Having lost his twin, Troy, under six months ago, and now tragically Adam has succumbed to the same fate.”

“This is a significant issue not only in football but across Australia… I hope it sparks important conversations about mental health.”

“There are no words that can ease the agony for the Selwood family. We can only extend our best wishes and keep them in our thoughts, as the community rallies around them.”

If you or someone you know needs immediate assistance, contact Lifeline on 13 11 14 or through lifeline.org.au. In case of emergency, please call 000.