Carlton Midfielder Elijah Hollands Sidelined for Fremantle Match Following Mental Health Episode
Elijah Hollands has been ruled out of Carlton's upcoming clash with Fremantle next weekend, as the midfielder continues to receive support following a mental health episode on Thursday night. The 23-year-old player was credited with just one disposal in the loss to Collingwood, despite significant game time, with footage raising concerns for his welfare.
Club Provides Support Amid Complex Investigation
The Blues have since provided support while looking into what CEO Graham Wright has described as "unprecedented and complex circumstances." Speaking on Sunday, Wright said Hollands is doing "OK" but will not travel to Perth to face the Dockers on Saturday night. "I had some contact with him yesterday, he's getting great support," he stated. "He's with his dad and family and obviously getting support through our medical staff and the medical staff from the AFL."
Wright conceded he was still unsure exactly when Carlton staff first raised concerns with Hollands during the game. He said "at this stage" they do not suspect drugs or alcohol played a role in the situation. However, he added they are "still in the process" of investigating the circumstances "leading up to the game" and even "two or three weeks prior" in a bid to uncover any changes that affected Hollands.
Hollands' History and Recent Performance
Hollands twice took personal leave from Carlton last year, later revealing he had been battling with his mental health and issues with alcohol. The former Gold Coast player was delisted by the Blues at the end of last season, despite having a year to run on his contract. However, Hollands was invited to Carlton training over summer, impressing enough to win his spot back on the list. He has played all six games this season, averaging 18.4 possessions before his concerning night against the Magpies.
AFL and Players Association Involvement
The AFL has requested answers from Carlton once the club works out what happened. The AFL Players Association was concerned by how the situation evolved and has been in contact with the AFL and Hollands' manager to better understand what occurred. "We are determined to ensure a considered process not just an understanding of what happened but to ensure key learnings come from this, not just for us, but for the broader football community and industry," Wright emphasized.
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