Stories

While Joel will finish his career as the best credentialed and well-known footballer in his family, Joel’s brother Adam has plenty to do with the Selwood name becoming synonymous with courage.

The eldest Selwood (along with twin brother Troy) Adam will be fondly remembered by West Coast supporters as a hard-nosed midfielder who gave his all during a successful period for the club. He played in the 2006 Premiership and the Eagles’ four-point Grand Final loss to Sydney in 2005.

His bravery was put on show in 187 games for the Eagles, where his eyes rarely left the ball. He often left the field battered and bruised,due to collisions with opposition players and teammates alike,but was widely respected by supporters.

He twice finished third in the Eagles’ Best and Fairest, in 2007 and 2008, and represented Australia in the International Rules Series each season between 2006 and 2008.

Selwood’s courage set a high standard for teammates, but he was also a prominent figure off the field. He was part of the Eagles’ leadership group and has worked closely with the AFL Players’ Association throughout his career – as a delegate between 2007 and 2010 and a board member from 2011 to 2013.

Along with his three brothers, and his parents Maree and Bryce, Selwood has worked as an ambassador for Seeing Eye Dogs Australia. Outside his AFL career Selwood has achieved success academically, completing a Bachelor of Commerce.

With his playing career over, a future in coaching may also be on the cards. Selwood completed the Level 2 AFL Coaching Course and worked as an assistant coach for the Western Australian under 16 and under 18 state sides throughout 2013. Having had a taste of coaching, he’s keen to pursue it further.

It’s often said players respond best to coaches who were tough and uncompromising during their careers. The Selwood name certainly wouldn’t stick out amongst the likes of Hardwick, Roos and Clarkson. Who knows, Adam and Joel might one day be emulating the Scott brothers and coaching against one another.

Decades after first fighting over a loose ball in their backyard, it would add another fitting chapter to the Selwood rivalry.

Adam is one of eight nominees in line for this year’s AFL Players’ Madden Medal. The award is given to a retiring great each season, recognising the player’s contributions to the game both on and off the field. The winner will be announced at a ceremony at the Sofitel on Friday 4th October.