A shocking double blow has rocked the AFL community, with yet another premiership player stepping away from the game. The latest setback is a cruel reminder of the challenges athletes face off the field.
James Harmes, a key member of the Western Bulldogs, has taken personal leave, leaving the club in a delicate situation. Foxfooty.com.au has confirmed that Harmes has been absent from pre-season training since the Christmas break, and his return remains uncertain as he navigates a personal matter.
At 30 years old, Harmes' absence is a significant loss for the Bulldogs, especially considering his full participation in training leading up to the break. It's unlikely he'll be back in action early in the 2026 season, which is a huge blow to the team's prospects.
But here's where it gets controversial... Harmes is not the only AFL star dealing with personal issues. Last week, Collingwood's Norm Smith Medal hero, Bobby Hill, and Geelong's premiership forward, Tyson Stengle, also took leave from their clubs. This trend raises questions about the support systems in place for these athletes and the challenges they face beyond the bright lights of the field.
Harmes' situation is particularly intriguing. He has had an on-and-off relationship with the Bulldogs over the past two campaigns, playing only 22 games out of a possible 174 since joining the club in 2023. With his three-year contract expiring at the end of this season, his future with the Bulldogs is uncertain.
Meanwhile, the Bulldogs' preparations for the new season are in full swing, with the rest of the squad returning to pre-season training this week. They aim to improve on their 2025 campaign, which saw them win 14 games and narrowly miss out on the finals. Their first test will be against the reigning back-to-back premiers, Brisbane, in the Opening Round on Saturday night at the Gabba.
And this is the part most people miss... the impact of these personal struggles extends beyond the players themselves. It affects team dynamics, strategies, and the overall performance of the club. The AFL community must come together to support these athletes and ensure they receive the help they need.
In other news, the Giants' recruit, Clayton Oliver, faces a setback of his own. Oliver, a star player with an impressive resume, will spend a few weeks on the sidelines due to a calf issue. This comes as a blow to the Giants, who were hoping to capitalize on Oliver's talent this season.
Additionally, the AFL Origin match is facing some uncertainty with two key players, Greene and Hogan, in doubt. Coleman Medallist Hogan, who underwent foot surgery, is still a couple of weeks away from full training, while Greene, battling a glute injury, is a touch-and-go case for the Origin game.
Finally, North Melbourne's veteran defender, Aidan Corr, has suffered a pre-season injury, adding to the club's woes. Corr, 31, has a moderate-grade calf strain that will keep him out for the next four to six weeks. This is a significant setback, especially considering his limited game time last season due to soft tissue issues.
The AFL community must rally together to support these athletes and ensure they receive the care and support they need. It's a reminder that the game is more than just wins and losses; it's about the people behind the jerseys.
What are your thoughts on these recent developments? Do you think the AFL is doing enough to support its players through personal struggles? Let's discuss in the comments!
