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The
Western Bulldogs have announced today that key recruit and gun forward
Tom Boyd is being granted a leave of absence from footy as he seeks treatment for
clinical depression.
21-year-old Boyd has reportedly been managing his condition for some time now in conjunction with treatment from club medical staff, but today’s leave of absence represents a new phase in his treatment and recovery.
Boyd enjoyed a breakout campaign during the Dogs historic and moving 2016 AFL Finals campaign, en route to a drought-breaking AFL Premiership. He kicked three crucial goals, including a highlight-making 70 metre bomb, and was arguably unlucky not to score the Norm Smith Medal for best afield.
However the young forward has struggled to recapture that form this year, booting just seven goals from eleven games as coach Luke Beveridge has shifted his role into the midfield as a ruckman. Boyd had struggled with injury in recent weeks, and was scheduled to undergo a fitness test ahead of this weekend’s vital clash against Adelaide on Friday night.
In a statement posted to their website, the Bulldogs confirmed Boyd’s leave of absence, and stated that while there is no timetable for his return, the club would look to reintegrate the young man back into training schedules as soon as he is able.
“Western Bulldogs forward Tom Boyd has been provided a leave of absence from the Club while he receives treatment for clinical depression.
Tom has managed his illness in conjunction with the Bulldogs’ medical staff for an extended period, and will continue to receive the Club’s full support as he works through this challenge.”
“Tom has indicated a desire to return to playing as soon as possible, and the Club will work closely with Tom and the Bulldogs’ medical staff to determine a suitable time for reintegration into the training program.
The Club will continue to provide an extensive support framework to help Tom manage his illness, and asks for the respect for Tom’s position during this time.”
Boyd is the second Bulldog in recent weeks to take time off in order to deal with mental health issues. Veteran Travis Cloke announced an indefinite break from footy to deal with his own mental health issues.
Earlier in the year Collingwood mid Alex Fasolo also publicly announced a break from footy to deal with his mental health.
A rise in prominent footballers publicly acknowledging their struggles with mental health is vitally important in the normalising of mental health recognition and treatment, particularly amongst men.
Tom Boyd can only be commended for putting his hand up and admitting he needs some help. And here’s hoping he’s fighting fit and back on the field as soon as humanly possible.
Onya, Boydy. Good luck mate.
Photo: Darrian Traynor/Getty.
