AFL Declines Mental Health Round as Bailey Smith Leads Player Push

Overview

• Channel 7 reporting says the AFL will not create a dedicated men's Mental Health Round in the near term.
• Geelong star Bailey Smith renewed his call and criticised the new Wildcard round in an Instagram post.
• Club-led options are emerging, with Smith saying Geelong is planning its own awareness game and reports linking Melbourne and Carlton to a possible match next year.
• Support for a stronger focus on wellbeing grew, with Melbourne captain Max Gawn, Hawthorn’s Jack Ginnivan, and commentator Matthew Richardson backing Smith’s push.
• The league points to existing efforts, including St Kilda’s annual Spud’s Game in honour of Danny Frawley, and partnerships with mental health groups.