Adam Selwood, a 2006 West Coast Eagles premiership player, died on Saturday aged 41. His family released a public statement confirming his death. No details have been shared about the cause. The AFL community is grieving following the news, which comes just months after his twin brother Troy’s death.
Loss Follows Twin Brother’s Passing
Troy Selwood, a former Brisbane Lions player, died by suicide in early February. His funeral took place at Kardinia Park on February 14. Adam, Joel, and Scott Selwood delivered eulogies for their brother during the service. The family described that day as their most courageous moment.
Selwood Brothers during the service
Recent Mental Health Advocacy
Adam entered Perth’s HBF Run for a Reason last month. He ran to raise money for suicide prevention. The move highlighted his ongoing support for mental health awareness following Troy’s death.
Family Shares Emotional Statement
The AFL released a statement on behalf of Adam’s wife Fiona and the broader Selwood family. “We are heartbroken by the passing of Adam earlier today,” the family wrote. “Words cannot express the grief and sadness we feel,” the statement continued. “Adam was a loving husband, and an incredible father to Lenny and Billie. We are devastated to lose such a wonderful husband, father, son and brother.” The statement added, “We will miss Adam deeply — his spirit, his kindness, and the joy he brought to every room. His determination, the lessons he shared, and his infectious personality will stay with us always. Adam had a unique ability to make people feel special, and our family was lucky to experience that every day. We kindly ask for privacy as we navigate this difficult time.”
Career with West Coast Eagles
Adam Selwood played 187 AFL games for West Coast between 2002 and 2013. He played a key role in the club’s 2006 premiership victory. After retirement, he remained active at the club in coaching and development roles. He also served as the club’s head of female football. Selwood was born in Bendigo, Victoria, and moved to Western Australia as a teenager. He came from one of the AFL’s most recognisable football families.
Tributes from Club Leaders
West Coast released a public statement late Saturday. The club described Selwood as a much-loved former player, coach, and staff member. Eagles head of football John Worsfold said, “Adam was a great teammate who loved the club, loved his footy. 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 always put his mates and team first.” West Coast CEO Don Pyke acknowledged the loss in a club-wide message. He said Selwood was an outstanding person and family man. The club is feeling the weight of his passing.
Adam during a match against the Hawks in 2012
Support from AFL Community
AFL chief executive Andrew Dillon addressed the loss in a league-wide statement. Dillon said, “The football industry will wrap its arms around the Selwood family. Adam was a dearly loved son, brother, husband and father and his loss is a tremendous blow for all who loved him. On behalf of the AFL and all of our clubs, I want to send our love to his wife Fiona and their two children, to Maree and Bryce Selwood, Joel and Scott, and their families, and all of Adam’s many friends and colleagues and past teammates at West Coast and across football.” Dillon also encouraged all in the football and wider community to check in on one another. He acknowledged the family’s immense pain, especially after Troy’s death.
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Eagles to Honour Selwood at Optus Stadium
The West Coast Eagles plan to honour Adam Selwood at their home game at Optus Stadium on Sunday. The tribute will recognise Selwood’s service and contributions to the club and the game.
Widespread Grief and Remembrance
The AFL community has responded with messages of support and sorrow. Clubs, players, and fans have expressed condolences through social media and public comments. Support services have reminded fans and the public to reach out in difficult times. The Selwood family has requested privacy as they grieve.
Legacy of Commitment and Leadership
Adam Selwood’s death marks a significant loss for the AFL. His impact on and off the field remains part of West Coast’s history. He leaves behind a strong legacy as a player, coach, mentor, and advocate for mental health.
