The player movement landscape in the Australian Football League (AFL) was once again a source of major headlines in 2025. As we delve into the top 10 stories of the year, significant shifts and emotional moments have left a lasting impact on the league. From the unexpected reset of a premiership team to the dramatic exit of a No.1 draft pick, the AFL community witnessed a year of profound change.
This article continues AFL.com.au’s annual six-part series, counting down the biggest football stories of 2025 and the season’s most memorable on-field moments, focusing now on stories ranked 10 through 6.
Tragic Loss: The Passing of Troy and Adam Selwood
The AFL community was rocked by the tragic loss of twin brothers Troy and Adam Selwood, who passed away just three months apart. The Selwood family, deeply woven into the fabric of the league, faced a heartbreaking year. Troy, a former Brisbane player known for his courage and compassion, left behind a legacy of kindness and deep thinking. Adam, a 187-game premiership player with West Coast, was celebrated for his infectious personality and continued contributions to the club as a coach and administrator.
The West Coast Eagles, still mourning the loss of fellow 2006 premiership player Adam Hunter, rallied in the week following Troy’s death. Their spirited 28-point victory over St Kilda was a testament to their resilience. Co-captain Oscar Allen captured the emotional mood, stating, “It’s great to win a game of footy, but we’ve lost a legend of our club. We’re heartbroken and we just want to offer all the love and support we can to the Selwood family in this time.”
Captain’s Controversial Meeting: Oscar Allen’s Public Scrutiny
Oscar Allen, the West Coast Eagles’ key forward, found himself at the center of a media storm after his meeting with rival coach Sam Mitchell became public. While such meetings are not uncommon, the public exposure of this particular encounter led to weeks of headlines and a tense press conference where Allen expressed his embarrassment and shame alongside head of football John Worsfold.
The scrutiny intensified as critics debated the appropriateness of a club captain meeting with rival coaches. Despite the backlash, some defended Allen’s right to explore his future options as a free agent. The controversy took a toll on Allen’s mental health, prompting him to take a break from the club. Eventually, he joined Brisbane as a free agent, a move that netted West Coast a No.2 draft pick, seen as a mutually beneficial outcome.
Jamarra Ugle-Hagan’s Struggles and Departure
The Western Bulldogs faced a challenging year with the off-field struggles of talented forward Jamarra Ugle-Hagan. From January, Ugle-Hagan was on a flexible training arrangement, and by April, he had taken indefinite leave due to mental health concerns. The Bulldogs, with the AFL’s support, implemented a management plan to aid his recovery.
Despite returning to the club in June with hopes of playing again, Ugle-Hagan did not feature in any games in 2025. He expressed regret over his time with the Bulldogs, but a trade to Gold Coast during the Trade Period offered a fresh start. Bulldogs captain Marcus Bontempelli expressed hope for Ugle-Hagan’s future, stating, “I’m happy for him that hopefully this can be the change in the end that he needs.”
Charlie Curnow’s Blockbuster Move to Sydney
In a Trade Period marked by deals that didn’t materialize, Charlie Curnow’s move to Sydney stood out as a significant transaction. Initially, Curnow expressed interest in a trade, considering Gold Coast, Sydney, and Geelong as potential destinations. Despite the Blues’ insistence that he would not be traded, Curnow eventually forced a move to the Swans.
The trade, involving three first-round draft picks and Swans forward Will Hayward, along with Ollie Florent joining the Blues in a separate deal, was seen as a strategic decision for both clubs. Carlton’s football boss Chris Davies commented on the necessity of having players committed to the club’s future, especially after losing key players like Jack Silvagni and Tom De Koning to St Kilda.
The Melbourne Reset
Melbourne’s premiership team, once poised for a dynasty, faced an unexpected reset in 2025. The team’s journey underscores the unpredictable nature of the AFL, where even the most promising trajectories can change course. As the league looks ahead, these stories highlight the dynamic and often emotional landscape of Australian football.
The AFL’s 2025 season was marked by profound changes and emotional moments that will resonate for years to come. As the league continues to evolve, these stories serve as a reminder of the sport’s enduring impact on players, clubs, and fans alike.
