‘Genuine Worry’: Jamarra Ugle-Hagan to Sit Out Season Opener Due to ‘Significant’ Personal Matters

Western Bulldogs forward Jamarra Ugle-Hagan has been ruled out of their opening round clash against North Melbourne and is uncertain for the beginning of the season.

As reported by Nine’s chief AFL reporter Tom Morris, there is a significant chance that the 22-year-old might not make his return to elite competition until later in the season.

The previous No.1 draft pick has been largely absent from the club throughout the pre-season, with no appearances at training since December.

He has been training separately from Whitten Oval, as the club confirmed last month that he is currently “undertaking flexible training arrangements” to address various “personal issues”.

“Jamarra Ugle-Hagan will not participate in round one as he continues to train away from the club,” Morris stated.

While the Bulldogs have yet to officially announce his absence for round one, Morris believes that Ugle-Hagan will need an extended training period before he can be considered for selection in the senior squad.

“Those in his inner circle acknowledge his return may not occur until several weeks or even months into the season,” Morris added.

“There has been a degree of reticence among those close to Ugle-Hagan to discuss his situation as it is serious and personal. However, it is evident that there is genuine concern from those around him regarding his health and wellbeing.

“This concern extends well beyond the game of football.”

Of Noongar, Gunditjmara, and Djab Wurrun heritage, Ugle-Hagan is currently in Perth with the Indigenous All Stars team, albeit in a non-playing capacity.

The team is set to face Fremantle in an exhibition match on Saturday.

Previously, Sam Power, the acting general manager of football for the Bulldogs, acknowledged that the club does not currently view Ugle-Hagan as part of their immediate plans but hopes to see him return later in 2025.

“Our immediate considerations are centred around his wellbeing,” Power said on SEN radio.

“We aim to support him adequately to ensure his success on the field in the medium to long term.”

Ugle-Hagan also took personal leave last season, missing two matches to return to south-west Victoria.

Since his debut in round 17, 2021, he has played 63 senior matches and scored 103 goals.

Last May, he signed a two-year contract extension, committing to the Bulldogs until the end of 2026.