Home / Sports / Ugle-Hagan's AFL comeback: Drugs, rehab, and a new start
Ugle-Hagan's AFL comeback: Drugs, rehab, and a new start
15 May
Summary
- Jamarra Ugle-Hagan was compelled by the AFL to attend rehab.
- He spent four months in a facility, battling depression and numbness.
- Ugle-Hagan has found a supportive environment with the Gold Coast Suns.
Jamarra Ugle-Hagan has bravely shared his journey back to professional football, detailing a difficult period last year. The Australian Football League (AFL) issued an ultimatum, requiring Ugle-Hagan to seek rehabilitation if he wished to continue his career.
He revealed to Code Sports that he was mandated to attend a rehab facility in Byron Bay for four months. This experience was challenging, as he was on antidepressants and felt numb to his surroundings. Ugle-Hagan also noted the influence of negative environments and a lack of a supportive 'bubble' at the time.
Despite a trade from the Western Bulldogs, the 24-year-old forward has found a new beginning with the Gold Coast Suns. He made his senior debut for the Suns in Round 7, breaking a 596-day AFL drought. Ugle-Hagan has since maintained his spot in coach Damien Hardwick's team, contributing significantly, including a three-goal performance in a recent win.
