A number of shattered AFL identities and fans have paid tribute to Adam Selwood, who died suddenly on Saturday aged just 41.
The father of two played for West Coast his entire professional footy career, with the highlight a premiership in 2006.
Once he retired, Selwood moved into coaching at the Eagles, taking on a development role and then becoming the inaugural head of female football as the club launched its historic AFLW program.
His death has rocked the AFL world – and tragically comes after Selwood’s twin brother Troy also passed away in February.
John Worsfold – Selwood’s coach when the Eagles won the AFL Grand Final against the Swans – was in disbelief when he heard the sad news.
‘Adam was a great teammate who loved the club, loved his footy,’ he said.
A number of AFL identities and fans have paid tribute to Adam Selwood, who died suddenly on Saturday aged just 41
John Worsfold – Selwood’s coach when the Eagles won the flag in 2006 – was in disbelief when he heard the sad news (pictured right, with Ben Cousins)
Geelong premiership forward Cam Mooney was close to tears on Fox Footy when talking about Adam Selwood
The shattering news comes just months after Adam’s twin brother Troy (pictured) died in February
‘We drafted him at 18 and watched him grow as a player and person. We got to know the Selwood family so well over the years, and they are such wonderful people who our hearts go out to more than anything.
‘As a player, Adam was the ultimate team man. He played whatever role was required.
‘He gave it 100 per cent and connected with everyone he was involved with.
‘He’s had a massive impact on our footy club.’
Geelong, where Adam’s decorated brother Joel played and won four premierships, extended their ‘deepest condolences’ on Saturday.
‘The Geelong Football Club is deeply saddened to learn of the passing of Adam Selwood,’ the statement read.
‘We extend our deepest condolences to his wife Fiona, children Lenny and Billie, brothers Joel and Scott and parents Maree and Bryce, our thoughts are with you at this time.’
Geelong premiership forward Cam Mooney, who played alongside Joel Selwood during his time at the Cats, was close to tears on Fox Footy following the development.
Adam Selwood delivers his eulogy during Troy Selwood’s funeral service in February
The Selwoods are now grieving the loss of two family members inside four months (twins Troy and Adam are pictured far right, in 2022)
This footy fan urged the football world to ‘wrap their arms’ around the grieving Selwoods
Another supporter wondered if the AFL should introduce a Men’s Mental Health round in a bid to raise awareness
The Collingwood Magpies extended their deepest condolences to the Selwood family
Geelong – where Joel Selwood won multiple premierships – were equally saddened by the news
West Coast are mourning the passing of 2006 premiership winner Adam Selwood (pictured)
3AW radio host Neil Mitchell said the news was ‘tragic for such a decent family’
‘It’s a family I’ve known for nearly 20 years and a family that I’ve grown very fond of over the years and loved,’ he said.
‘So to hear the news this morning, absolutely tragic….it was only three months ago that we buried Troy.’
On X, countless footy fans were equally shattered at Selwood’s passing.
‘The entire footy world needs to wrap their arms around the family,’ said one.
‘Surely it is time the AFL introduce a Men’s Mental Health round?,’ suggested another.
A third posted: ‘No parent should have to bury their child, let alone two in a matter of months.’
Adam Selwood is survived by his wife Fiona, plus children Lenny and Billie.
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