The future of Jamarra Ugle-Hagan with the Western Bulldogs remains uncertain as the club’s head coach, Luke Beveridge, indicated that the troubled forward’s path will depend on several factors. Ugle-Hagan, who has not played at any level this year due to personal issues, has been absent from training and the club for several weeks. Beveridge expressed hope that starting afresh in 2026 could provide a much-needed revival for the young athlete’s career.
Ugle-Hagan, the former number one draft pick, has faced difficulties this season, and his situation was further complicated by his presence near a shooting incident outside a nightclub earlier this week. Beveridge refrained from commenting on the specifics of that incident, noting it is a matter for the police.
“We haven’t seen him for a couple of weeks. He’s been home dealing with some stuff on the mission,” Beveridge explained. “It seems like he’s healthy enough, and he’s still training on.” He emphasized his hope that Ugle-Hagan could eventually return to play AFL football next year.
While Ugle-Hagan remains under contract with the Bulldogs for the upcoming season, the possibility of a trade appears increasingly likely if another club expresses interest. When asked about his communication with Ugle-Hagan, Beveridge responded, “No,” but reassured that the club is committed to supporting the player through his challenges.
“All you do is just try and help the person, which we’ve been doing with Marra,” Beveridge stated. “He’s been doing his best to help himself, and we feel like he’s made some inroads. The trip up north to the health retreat was good for him. This season just was too far gone, so I think starting afresh next year is a good thing to think about and consider.”
Beveridge’s comments about a potential fresh start left the door open regarding Ugle-Hagan’s future with the Bulldogs. “There’s a bit of water to go under the bridge now at the end of the year and things to consider,” he said. “I can’t say definitively whether it will be here or somewhere else.”
In a related development, the Bulldogs have decided not to select veteran Adam Treloar for their crucial match against Fremantle at Marvel Stadium on September 24, 2023. Beveridge mentioned that while Treloar performed well in the VFL with 40 disposals, the team needs further evidence of his ability to cope with the physical demands of AFL games following a series of calf injuries.
Treloar’s absence is disappointing for him, but Beveridge stressed the importance of ensuring that his teammates have “absolute confidence” in his physical condition before returning to the AFL level.
Additionally, young tall Jordan Croft faced a right shoulder injury scare during training but later returned to the session without any significant issues.
As the Bulldogs prepare for their critical upcoming match, the focus will be on their ability to navigate both the injuries and uncertainties surrounding key players like Ugle-Hagan and Treloar.
