Adam Selwood wasn’t the loudest name in the AFL, but for anyone who followed the West Coast Eagles in the 2000s, he was unforgettable. A hard-nosed tagger, a selfless teammate, and a 2006 premiership player, Selwood’s career was built on grit, heart, and quiet excellence. Today, the AFL community is mourning the devastating news of his passing at just 41.
Selwood died in Perth this morning, just three months after the tragic death of his twin brother Troy.
A Career Marked by Discipline and Devotion
Adam played 187 games for the Eagles between 2003 and 2013. He wasn’t flashy. He was effective. Reliable. Trusted. He earned a Rising Star nomination in 2005, won a flag the following year, and proudly represented Australia in the International Rules Series multiple times. At his peak, he was the kind of player you built a backline around—disciplined, durable, and fiercely loyal to his team.
After retiring, he stayed connected to the game. He worked at the Eagles as a development coach, then as head of female football. His influence quietly helped shape the next generation, on and off the field.
PERTH, AUSTRALIA – JUNE 30, 2016: Happier Times – Drew Banfield and Adam Selwood walk a lap of honour with team mates celebrating the West Coast Eagles 2006 Premiership anniversary during the round 15 AFL match between the West Coast Eagles and the Essendon Bombers at Domain Stadium on June 30, 2016 in Perth, Australia. (Photo by Paul Kane/Getty Images)
The Double Tragedy of the Selwood Twins
In February, Adam lost his twin, Troy Selwood,. Troy had played 75 games for Geelong and was every bit Adam’s match in spirit. The two were inseparable. In Adam’s own words at Troy’s memorial:
“He was full of life, full of love, full of wisdom beyond his years… my mirror, my fiercest competitor, greatest ally, and the one person who knew what I was always thinking.”
That loss shook Adam to the core. But rather than retreat, he turned his grief into action. He became a passionate advocate for mental health, partnering with zero2hero to raise awareness and funds. He had already raised over $21,000 for the cause and was training for the HBF Run for a Reason. He was running for Troy. Now, heartbreakingly, that run ends here.
A Legacy Bigger Than Football
Adam Selwood was more than a premiership player. He was a husband to Fiona, a father to Lenny and Billie, and a fighter for those battling silently. His post-footy life was defined by empathy and purpose. Even in his own grief, he worked to help others find light in theirs.
In a statement released by his family:
“We are heartbroken by the passing of Adam earlier today. Words cannot express the grief and sadness we feel… Adam was a loving husband, and an incredible father to Lenny and Billie.”
From across the AFL world, tributes have poured in. AFL CEO Andrew Dillon described Adam as a “dearly loved teammate and father,” and said his loss was “a tremendous shock to the football community.” Geelong Football Club expressed their deepest condolences in their statement. The AFLPA said “Adam was a man of enormous courage, spirit, and leadership – qualities that are universally admired.”
No Words Big Enough
There’s no tidy way to wrap up a life like Adam Selwood’s. He wasn’t a headline-chaser. He didn’t need to be. He led with integrity, fought for what mattered, and lived with an unwavering commitment to those around him. His death is a profound loss—not just for AFL fans, but for anyone who understands the depth of pain behind quiet strength.
He leaves behind a grieving family, a shocked football world, and a cause that now carries even more weight. If there’s anything we can do in his memory, it’s to keep the conversation going—to talk about mental health, to check in on one another.
Rest in peace, Adam Selwood.
