The West Coast Eagles have payed tribute to Adam Selwood, a celebrated premiership player. To celebrate his impactful, lasting contributions both on and off the field, they released an emotional video honoring his life. Born in Bendigo, Victoria, Selwood has left a permanent mark on the game of Australian Rules Football. He has since become an equally fervent advocate for mental health awareness.
Selwood joined his home state of Western Australia during his teenage years. He has the proud distinction of notching up 187 games for the West Coast Eagles. He became one of the giants of Australian political history with his unforgettable 2006 premiership triumph. This victory established him as a cornerstone in the annals of the team’s history. He comes from an incredible athletic family tree. As far as I know, his brothers Joel, Scott, and Troy are still working on inspiring impressive AFL careers of their own. The Selwood family have all made remarkable impacts to Australian sport, creating a legacy that still inspires young athletes today.
Contributions to Women’s Football and Mental Health Advocacy
In addition to his achievements on the field, Selwood played a pivotal role in establishing the women’s program and the inaugural AFLW Eagles. He’s passionate about taking the sport in a better direction. His leadership qualities and vision for inclusivity are evident in the fast-paced dynamic sport of Australian Rules Football.
Selwood’s legacy on the field is clear, but so is his commitment to mental health advocacy. Following the tragic loss of his twin brother Troy to suicide earlier this year, Selwood has become a passionate advocate for mental health awareness. After running in the HBF Run for a Reason Half Marathon in Perth, he launched an online fundraising initiative. His overall goal is $10,000 for Zero2Hero. This charity is dedicated to educating and empowering young people to become leaders in mental health and help prevent youth suicide.
“My goal is to raise $10,000 in support of Zero2Hero — an incredible charity committed to educating, engaging, and empowering young people to become mental health leaders and help prevent youth suicide here in Western Australia.” – Adam Selwood
Selwood’s fundraising efforts have blown past those dreams. Donor contributions have surged well beyond the original $10,000 fundraising goal —more than $33,000 and counting!
Recognition from Leaders and Community
Victorian Premier Jacinta Allan said she’d had a great admiration for Selwood’s contributions during these difficult times. She dubbed him “the local hero.” She made the case for not only his accomplishments as a footballer, but his commitment to advancing mental health advocacy.
“On behalf of all Victorians, I extend my heartfelt condolences to the friends and family of Adam Selwood during this profoundly difficult time,” – Jacinta Allan
Selwood’s commitment to helping others through his own personal tragedy has struck a chord with the community. His work continues to be a source of inspiration for everyone around him. It encourages people to start conversations about mental health and help one another cope.
Legacy and Ongoing Impact
The tribute video released by the West Coast Eagles serves as a reminder of Selwood’s accomplishments both on the field and within the community. It features highlights of his career interspersed with moments showcasing his efforts to uplift others through initiatives like the women’s program in football.
As Selwood continues through this difficult time after his brother’s suicide, his hope for change keeps him going. He’s often taken to social media to thank the outpouring support he’s felt from friends, family, and fans alike.
“Thank you, from the bottom of my heart, for your love, generosity, and support in recent times.” – Adam Selwood
