Hird Identifies Star with a Trust Deficit Who Achieved Redemption: A Model for Jamarra Ugle-Hagan to Follow

James Hird has not lost faith in the troubled Western Bulldogs player Jamarra Ugle-Hagan, seeing reigning Coleman Medallist Jesse Hogan as an ideal role model for him to follow.

Ugle-Hagan has taken a proactive step by entering a health retreat located outside Victoria as he aims for a return to the field.

So far in 2025, he has not participated in any games for the Bulldogs and has primarily trained away from the club, grappling with mental health challenges and issues off the field.

The former number one draft pick opted for indefinite leave from the club in April to focus on his well-being.

Hird believes Ugle-Hagan can learn from Hogan, who experienced his own struggles early in his career after a bright start in the AFL.

In 2015, Hogan received the AFL Rising Star award and exhibited impressive form during his initial two seasons with Melbourne. However, he faced personal difficulties, including the passing of his father and a diagnosis of testicular cancer in 2017.

To be closer to family, Hogan was traded to Fremantle after the 2018 season but continued to encounter obstacles, including a suspension related to alcohol, smoking issues, and a serious foot injury. In 2020, he took indefinite leave for mental health reasons and eventually found a new home at Greater Western Sydney (GWS), where he was traded for pick 54.

That move marked a turning point for the forward, who has since enjoyed three solid seasons with the Giants, including capturing the Coleman Medal in 2024. He is again a strong contender for the accolade in 2025.

Hird, having coached Hogan during his time at GWS, takes pride in the player’s achievements.

Footy Classified is now available as a podcast! Subscribe/follow via Apple, Spotify or Google Podcasts

“I see Jesse Hogan as an example; he faced significant challenges – early in his career with Melbourne, he was a promising star who stumbled, then moved to Fremantle and finally GWS,” Hird shared during an interview on Nine’s Footy Classified.

“I was there for Hogan’s second year at GWS when his inconsistency was a topic of discussion, as people questioned his commitment during training.

“However, his current form is a testament to his hard work. He has become a standout player in the league, even scoring seven goals against Geelong, which is no easy feat.

“If I were in Ugle-Hagan’s shoes, I would encourage him to draw inspiration from Jesse’s journey.

“It’s crucial for him to address his mental health, and he has the potential to return to his best self.

“It’s an inspiring narrative, and he can certainly follow in Hogan’s footsteps.”