Who was Adam Selwood? AFL world mourns the death of former West Coast player

The AFL community is mourning the loss of Adam Selwood, a West Coast Eagles premiership player, who passed away at just 41 years of age. His death comes only three months after the heartbreaking passing of his twin brother, Troy Selwood. Known for his selfless playing style, deep family bonds, and dedication to the game, Adam’s sudden departure has left a profound void across Australian football and beyond.Adam Selwood dies at 41, just months after losing his twin brotherAdam Selwood’s journey began in Bendigo, Victoria, and his path to AFL greatness took off when he was drafted by West Coast in 2003. Over the course of a decade, he played 187 games and was an integral part of the club’s iconic 2006 premiership victory over Sydney. Beyond statistics, Adam was known for his fierce competitiveness and his commitment to the team’s cause. As former Eagles coach John Worsfold reflected, “Adam was a great teammate who loved the club, loved his footy… He gave it 100 per cent and connected with everyone he was involved with.”After retiring in 2013, Adam remained connected to football, taking on roles as a development coach and later as the head of female football at West Coast. His post-playing career showcased his passion for mentoring and growing the game, particularly in areas that needed nurturing.The tragic passing of his twin brother Troy earlier this year deeply impacted Adam. At Troy’s funeral, Adam had delivered a moving tribute, describing their rare bond: “Troy wasn’t just my brother; he was my mirror, my fiercest competitor, my greatest ally.” That grief turned into purpose when Adam took part in a half-marathon to raise funds for zero2hero, a Western Australian mental health charity. It was his way of channeling sorrow into support for others, a testament to the kind of person he was—selfless and deeply compassionate.His death has devastated the Selwood family, who shared in a heartfelt statement, “We are heartbroken… Adam was a loving husband, and an incredible father to Lenny and Billie… His spirit, his kindness, and the joy he brought to every room will be missed deeply.” Adam’s wife Fiona, their children, and the entire Selwood family now face the unthinkable task of processing two enormous losses in such a short span.Tributes have poured in from across the AFL landscape. Luke Hodge, who shared the field with both Selwood twins in junior football, remembered their character fondly: “Every time you run into them, there are always quality people… it’s terrible.” The Geelong Football Club, where brothers Joel and Scott also left their mark, extended its condolences, while AFL CEO Andrew Dillon added, “Adam was a dearly loved son, brother, husband and father… his loss is a tremendous blow for all who loved him.”Adam Selwood's legacy isn’t just tied to a premiership medal or the number of games he played. It’s found in the hearts he touched, the young lives he mentored, and the family he stood by with unwavering loyalty. His life may have been cut short, but the impact he made—as a footballer, coach, father, and friend—will live on.Also Read: Bill Belichick’s tell-all book becomes a bestseller after much-discussed age-gap relationship drama grabs headlines