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Treloar reflects on mental health legacy

3 minute read

Western Bulldogs star Adam Treloar is proud of the legacy he is leaving around mental health awareness ahead of his 200th AFL game.

ADAM TRELOAR.
ADAM TRELOAR. Picture: Michael Willson/AFL Photos via Getty Images

Western Bulldogs star Adam Treloar believes the AFL can still improve in addressing the mental health challenges facing players.

The gun onballer has been one of the AFL's leading mental health advocates since he revealed he was close to quitting football four years ago due to a serious battle with anxiety.

Treloar's struggles were laid bare in a documentary about Collingwood's run to the 2018 grand final.

The 29-year-old, who joined the Bulldogs ahead of the 2021 season, has since given a number of interviews speaking about his troubles.

Ahead of his 200th AFL game, Treloar reflected on the legacy speaking out had created for himself and others battling with their mental health.

"I didn't anticipate for it to be anything bigger than me just talking about it," he said on Wednesday.

"I still don't think it's spoken about enough.

"I know the new draft kids coming in and the programs early days they try talking about your mental health.

"But for experienced players who have been around a bit and guys getting on with their career, it's not really spoken about that much.

"It's something I'll always be a massive advocate for, looking after your mental space.

"The support of my family has been enormous."

Richmond superstar Dustin Martin has only just returned to the AFL following six weeks of personal leave as he continues to grieve the death of his father last December.

Bulldogs premiership hero Tom Boyd, who Treloar never played with, retired in 2019 after the former No.1 pick battled significantly with his mental health during his 61-game career.

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