Majak Daw’s AFL career was defined by firsts, resilience and raw talent – and his post-footy life has been just as turbulent.
The former North Melbourne and Melbourne utility became the first Sudanese-Australian to play in the AFL after being drafted in 2009.
Daw burst onto the scene in 2013, famously kicking six goals in his fourth game and later claiming Mark of the Year in 2016.
His career spanned 54 games and 43 goals before he was delisted and briefly joined Melbourne, retiring in 2022 after a pectoral injury.
Since stepping away from the elite level, Daw has battled mental health struggles, alcohol addiction and significant legal troubles.
‘To be honest (life after footy) has been a bit clunky,’ Daw told News Corp. ‘I’m still trying to find my feet.’
Daw, pictured with his sone Hendrix, is much happier today after seeking treatment for mental health and alcohol abuse issues
Daw was a gifted but troubled player for the North Melbourne Kangaroos and that spilled over into his retirement
Daw poses in his new Tiwi Bombers colours ahead of his first game for the club in 2022
In 2023, Daw pleaded guilty to drunk driving, careless driving and failing to accompany police after crashing into a pole in Ascot Vale.
That crash followed another incident weeks earlier where Daw was caught driving his ute along a footpath in Braybrook.
He blew more than three times the legal limit and later admitted to police that he had been out drinking.
Judicial Registrar Stephanie Keogh-Barnes noted, ‘Driving on the footpath with an extremely high alcohol content … someone could have been killed.’
Daw received a $2500 fine, lost his licence for two years and was ordered to complete a road trauma seminar.
He also attended a 28-day rehab program in March 2023 to address his alcohol dependency.
‘It was just a volatile time post-retirement… I guess it was just really a coping mechanism,’ Daw said.
Now 34, Daw continues to work on himself, supported by regular sessions with his psychologist and psychiatrist.
Daw faced serious charges in court in 2023 where he pleaded guilty to drunk driving, careless driving and failing to accompany police
‘I want to completely go sober… if I’m going to keep talking about mental health, my own backyard needs to be clean.’
He hasn’t returned to rehab since but remains cautious: ‘I’m pretty careful about it, and I don’t take it lightly.’
Despite progress, Daw doesn’t trust himself to get his licence back, relying on the V-Line to attend training with Lara Football Netball Club.
‘Catching the V-Line to Lara, it is quite humbling… I just don’t think I’m responsible enough – still – to get my licence back.’
Daw reconnected with Lara’s football manager Nathan Evans, who once mentored him and other South Sudanese players at Wyndham Vale.
He now plays alongside childhood friend Majok Bol, describing the experience as ‘pretty cool’ and a chance to reconnect.
Though local footy has had its ups and downs, Daw praises the mental health awareness of coaches and teammates at every stop.
‘It’s important that local clubs are well equipped… so they can see the signs with their players or staff.’
The former AFL star is hoping to use his story of redemption to inspire others to seek help as well
Daw returned to the club has played for as a rookie, the Werribee Tigers, to work and play
His time at North Heidelberg in 2023 was cut short over commitment concerns, followed by a brief stint with Deer Park.
Juggling work, parenting and travel made it difficult to fully commit to those clubs, though he enjoyed his time with both.
Away from footy, Daw is a keynote speaker, sharing his journey from war-torn Sudan to elite sport and through personal hardship.
‘[Speaking] really does give me a reminder of how far I have come but also how much further I can improve on myself.’
He remains deeply engaged with the South Sudanese footy community, mentoring rising stars like Mac Andrew and Mabior Chol.
‘In the end I had to use it to my advantage and the realisation that I can have an impact.’
Tragedy also continues to shape Daw’s outlook, including the recent death of former AFL player Troy Selwood.
‘It was just a good reminder of how things can unfold very quickly,’ Daw said, reflecting on his own survival.
Daw famously survived a suicide attempt in 2018 after jumping from the Bolte Bridge, sustaining serious injuries.
Today, he says those thoughts have faded, though he still faces tough days and works constantly to maintain his mental health.
His five-year-old son Hendrix has been a grounding influence, reminding him to ‘compartmentalise’ life and focus on what matters.
Co-parenting, he admits, is ‘not an easy thing,’ but he and Hendrix’s mother are united in their commitment to their son.
Daw’s parents, Elizabeth and William, remain an ongoing source of love and support, having raised nine children after fleeing Sudan.
As for what others can do, Daw urges people to talk to loved ones and seek professional help if they’re struggling.
‘Each individual in our society gets 10 free sessions – going to see their GP, they can get a referral to see a psych.’
If you or anyone you know needs support, you can contact Lifeline 131 114, or Beyond Blue on 1300 224 636
