Adam Selwood: A Life of Courage and Legacy
Adam Selwood was a revered figure in Australian rules football, known for his tenacity on the field and his profound impact off it. As a premiership-winning player for the West Coast Eagles, a dedicated coach, and a beloved family man, Selwood’s life was marked by resilience, leadership, and a commitment to community. His tragic passing on May 17, 2025, at the age of 41, just months after the loss of his twin brother Troy, left the AFL community and beyond in mourning. Selwood’s remarkable journey is celebrated, tracing his roots in Bendigo to his enduring legacy in Perth.
Early Life and Raise to the AFL
Born on May 1, 1984, in Bendigo, Victoria, Adam Murray Selwood grew up in a tight-knit, sports-loving family alongside his twin brother Troy and younger brothers Joel and Scott. The Selwood brothers would later become one of the AFL’s most celebrated families, with all four playing at the elite level. Adam’s athletic talent shone early, honed through competitive games with his brothers and his time with the Bendigo Pioneers in the TAC Cup, where he played under-18 football. His determination and versatility caught the eye of recruiters, leading to his selection by the West Coast Eagles as pick number 53 in the third round of the 2002 AFL National Draft.
Moving to Perth at 18, Selwood faced the challenges of adapting to a new city and the demands of professional football. His early AFL career was marked by perseverance. In 2003, his debut season, he played two games, including a losing elimination final against Adelaide. A bout of osteitis pubis limited him to three games in 2004, but by 2005, Selwood had established himself as a regular in the Eagles’ lineup, playing 21 matches and earning a nomination for the AFL Rising Star award in round 16 for his tagging role against Brisbane’s Nigel Lappin.
A Premiership Hero and Team Man
Selwood’s defining moment came in 2006, when he played a pivotal role in West Coast’s premiership triumph over Sydney. Appearing in all 26 games that season, he alternated between defensive and midfield roles, earning a reputation as a tough, selfless player. His 26 possessions in the grand final underscored his importance to the team, and he finished fifth in the club’s best and fairest award. West Coast’s 2006 premiership coach, John Worsfold, later described him as “the ultimate team man” who “gave it 100 per cent and connected with everyone he was involved with.”
Over his 11-season career, Selwood played 187 games for the Eagles, cementing his status as a club stalwart. He finished third in the club’s best and fairest awards in 2007 and 2008, represented Australia in the 2008 International Rules Series against Ireland, and was named a vice-captain of the Australian team. His durability and leadership shone through, even as injuries, including a serious arm infection in 2012, tested his resilience. Selwood retired at the end of the 2013 season, leaving behind a legacy of hard work and camaraderie.
Beyond the Field: Coaching and Community Impact
After retiring, Selwood seamlessly transitioned into coaching and administration, remaining with the West Coast Eagles in various roles. He served as a development coach, mentoring emerging midfield talents, and in 2016, he took on the groundbreaking role of Head of Female Football. Tasked with establishing the club’s AFLW team, Selwood’s leadership was instrumental in laying the foundation for West Coast’s entry into the women’s competition in 2020. His work in female football became a lasting legacy, reflecting his ability to adapt and inspire.
Selwood’s commitment extended to community initiatives. A Bachelor of Commerce graduate from Curtin University, he balanced his studies with his playing career, showcasing his discipline. In 2007, alongside his brothers and parents, Maree and Bryce, he became an AFL celebrity ambassador for Seeing Eye Dogs Australia, raising awareness for guide dog training. In 2010, he became an ambassador for the Meningitis Centre, inspired by his own experience with HIB meningitis at age two.
A Family Man and Advocate
Selwood’s personal life was anchored by his devotion to his family. He was a loving husband to Fiona and a proud father to his two children, Lenny and Billie. His bond with his twin brother Troy was particularly profound, described by Adam as “a rare privilege and wonderfully complex.” The loss of Troy to suicide in February 2025 devastated Adam, who delivered a heartfelt eulogy at Troy’s funeral, calling him his “mirror, fiercest competitor, and greatest ally.” In response, Adam channeled his grief into action, entering the HBF Run for a Reason in Perth to raise over $20,000 for zero2hero, a Western Australian charity focused on mental health and suicide prevention. Tragically, he passed away just eight days before the event.
A Tragic Loss and Lasting Legacy
Adam Selwood’s death on May 17, 2025, in Perth, was confirmed by WA Police as non-suspicious, with a report prepared for the coroner. The AFL and West Coast Eagles communities were heartbroken, with tributes pouring in from teammates, coaches, and fans. His wife, Fiona, and the Selwood family released a statement via the AFL, describing Adam as “a loving husband, an incredible father, and a brother whose kindness and infectious personality will stay with us always.”
The outpouring of grief highlighted Selwood’s impact. Former teammate Cameron Mooney, visibly emotional on Fox Footy, spoke of the Selwood family’s warmth, while Collingwood coach Craig McRae, supported by Adam’s brother Scott, struggled to articulate the loss. West Coast honored Selwood at their home game against St Kilda on May 18, 2025, and Geelong players wore black armbands in his memory.
Adam Selwood’s life was a testament to courage, connection, and community. From his premiership glory to his pioneering work in women’s football and his advocacy for mental health, he leaves a legacy that transcends the game. As the AFL community mourns, his spirit endures in the hearts of his family, friends, and the countless lives he touched.
