Carlton and the AFL have thrown their support behind Elijah Hollands after the 23-year-old suffered a mental health episode during Thursday night's 13.10 (88) to 12.11 (83) loss to Collingwood at the MCG. Hollands initially recorded no statistics despite playing 75% of the match across the first three quarters, though he was later awarded an ineffective kick by Champion Data. He was benched for most of the final quarter as Collingwood overturned an 18-point deficit.
Carlton released a statement on Friday confirming the club would provide close and ongoing care, with Hollands' welfare the number one priority. The club remains in contact with the AFL and the AFL Players Association given the complicated nature of the incident. Coach Michael Voss described Hollands as 'pretty shattered' and 'really emotional' after the game, feeling he had let people down.
The AFL has been in contact with Carlton to discuss how best to support Hollands, while the AFLPA has expressed concern and sought to understand the situation better. Several videos circulated online appeared to show Hollands confused and exhibiting erratic behaviour during the match.
This is not the first time Hollands has faced mental health challenges. Last year, he took personal leave from Carlton twice, later revealing he had been battling mental ill-health and issues with alcohol. Delisted at the end of last season despite having a year left on his contract, he earned his spot back after impressing at training over summer. He had played all six games this season, averaging 18.4 possessions before Thursday's concerning output.
Carlton now sits at 1-5, having lost four times this year after holding sizeable second-half leads. The club has asked that Hollands' privacy be respected as he receives the necessary care.
