‘We’re asking those questions’: Blues give update on Elijah Hollands investigation
Carlton CEO Graham Wright says the Blues were aware Elijah Hollands “was struggling during the game” on Thursday night, and reiterated that the club did not suspect drugs or alcohol were involved in the player’s unusual behaviour.
The Blues are under mounting pressure to justify the way they handled Hollands in Thursday night’s clash against Collingwood, when he behaved unusually and finished the game with just one disposal – a kick.
On Friday, the club announced a review into what unfolded and said Hollands had suffered a mental health episode.
But on Saturday, journalist Caroline Wilson reported on 3AW that Collingwood players claimed Hollands had told them he had been drinking.
“I heard that report yesterday, and I haven’t heard anything from Collingwood or the AFL, so no one’s come to us with anything from that,” Wright said on Sunday morning.
“We were aware that he was struggling in the game, and he’s … had anxiety previously and panic attacks, and our guys were dealing with him in the game, obviously knew he was having some problems.”
Hollands, who spent time away from the club last year and was delisted before reclaiming his spot, has previously spoken to this masthead about his struggles with anxiety and alcohol.
When asked if the club had ruled out illicit drugs or alcohol as a factor before the game, Wright said the club was still working through the process.
“At this stage, we don’t suspect that’s it, we’re dealing with a mental health issue … but we’re in the process of going through all the circumstances leading up to the game,” he said.
Wright said the club was still investigating why Hollands was judged fit to play at the MCG in front of 80,000 people.
When asked if they could have done better as a footy club, Wright said people had a right to ask that question.
“We’re asking those questions of ourselves. And as I said, we’re really determined to get to a better solution for what happened in that game.”
Wright said Hollands would not travel to Perth for the team’s upcoming game against Fremantle and said the 23-year-old was spending time and getting support from his family as well as the club’s medical staff.
“Elijah’s mental challenges have been well-documented. Our staff have been working alongside Elijah on this journey with him over a long period of time now, both on and off the field, providing every resource possible to ensure his welfare is paramount.
“Thursday night presented unprecedented and complex circumstances. We’re taking this very seriously and acknowledging this has raised valid questions that we are determined to understand.”
Wright also confirmed Carlton had not been contacted by Worksafe regarding an investigation.
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Hannah Kennelly is an award-winning sports reporter and Formula 1 writer at The Age.Connect via email.