Western Bulldogs' young gun Jamarra Ugle-Hagan has revealed a chilling twist of fate that could have prevented him from ever gracing the AFL stage. The talented forward shared how a harrowing nightclub incident involving former Essendon champion Matthew Lloyd and a firearm almost ended his football dreams before they even began.
A Brush With Danger
The shocking revelation came to light as Ugle-Hagan reflected on his journey to becoming one of Australian football's most exciting prospects. "There was a moment when everything could have changed," the 20-year-old admitted, describing the terrifying encounter that occurred when he was just a teenager.
The Night That Changed Everything
According to Ugle-Hagan, the incident unfolded at a Geelong nightspot where Lloyd - now a respected football commentator - allegedly brandished a gun during a heated altercation. "I was in the wrong place at the wrong time," the Bulldogs star recalled. "When you're faced with that sort of situation as a kid, it makes you rethink everything."
Football As Salvation
Remarkably, the traumatic experience ultimately strengthened Ugle-Hagan's resolve to pursue an AFL career. "That night made me realise how precious life is," he explained. "It pushed me to make something of myself through football." The Indigenous talent has since become one of the competition's most exciting young forwards, living proof of his determination to overcome adversity.
Matthew Lloyd's Controversial Past
The revelation has cast new light on Lloyd's post-playing career. While best known for his goal-kicking prowess with Essendon, this incident - which allegedly occurred during his playing days - shows a different side to the AFL legend. Neither Lloyd nor the Western Bulldogs have commented on Ugle-Hagan's claims.
From Near-Tragedy to Triumph
Ugle-Hagan's story serves as a powerful reminder of how quickly life can change. The first Indigenous player drafted under the Bulldogs' Next Generation Academy system, he's now focused on repaying the faith shown in him. "Every game I play feels like a bonus," he said. "After what happened, I don't take anything for granted."
