Take It Seriously: Eddie McGuire’s Emotional Appeal to AFL and Clubs Following Selwood’s Tragedy

Eddie McGuire is questioning whether AFL players require a more balanced approach to work and life, particularly following the tragic deaths of twin brothers Troy and Adam Selwood this year.

Adam Selwood, who was just 41, passed away over the weekend, leaving the football community in shock.

The former Collingwood president acknowledges that the attitude towards mental health is evolving, yet he raises concerns about whether AFL clubs could do more to ensure players find daily satisfaction and appropriate training that prepares them for life beyond football.

Nevertheless, McGuire stresses that with increased flexibility for players comes the need for them to use that time productively.

“We’re reaching a point where the stigma surrounding mental health has diminished. I often pivot towards results and potential solutions,” McGuire shared on the Eddie and Jimmy podcast.

“I frequently say that just because you’re receiving a salary, it doesn’t instantly make you a professional. There remains an old-fashioned, well-intentioned approach within AFL football.”

“Historically, individuals balanced work with playing VFL football. But now, as full-time athletes, devoting eight hours a day solely to football is excessive.”

“Players must engage with this concept because whenever a club strikes a deal with a university, it’s like leading a horse to water. They may clown around and approach the AFL Players’ Association for a laptop to play Fortnite rather than taking their education seriously.”

“It’s time to eliminate this foolishness from football and adopt a serious mindset, no longer catering to the lowest denominator or resorting to clichés.”

“If we’re to take this matter seriously, we must truly commit to it. Clear expectations must be set for the players.”

“For instance, if I say your skinfold measurement should be 10 and you come in at 11, it’s clear you’re falling short.”

“It isn’t until later in life that you might reflect and think, ‘I should have focused on learning Shakespeare instead of gazing out the window daydreaming about Mary Smith down the street.’”

“We must strive for a vastly improved football-life experience during the time players spend at a club, with the understanding that we are compensating them to play football.”

Collingwood coach Craig McRae was visibly emotional during his post-match press conference when discussing Selwood’s passing.

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