Adam Selwood, a prominent figure in West Coast football, has passed away at the age of 41, leaving behind a legacy as an enthusiastic teammate. His death, which occurred in Perth on Saturday, follows closely the loss of his twin brother, Troy Selwood, just three months prior.
Before hanging up his boots in 2013, Adam played 187 matches for West Coast, contributing to their 2006 Premiership win. The Selwood family expressed their heartbreak in a statement released through the AFL, stating, “Words cannot capture the sadness we feel.” They fondly remembered Adam as a loving husband and devoted father to Renee and Billy, feeling a deep loss for someone so remarkable.
They added, “We’ll always cherish Adam’s spirit, his kindness, and the joy he brought to every space. His determination and infectious personality will always stay with us.” The family requested privacy during this challenging time as they cope with their grief.
Adam and Troy, both midfielders, belong to the renowned Selwood family, which includes Geelong star Joel Selwood and former Eagles and Cats player Scott Selwood. Troy, who played 75 matches for the Brisbane Lions, died in February, with Adam honoring him at his funeral by describing him as “Built Invest Mate.” Adam shared that writing a tribute for his brother was incredibly challenging, noting, “To have identical twins is both a unique blessing and a complex journey.” He spoke emotionally about their bond, saying that losing Troy created a gaping void in his life.
In another somber note, Adam Hunter, a teammate of Selwood’s, also passed away in February at the age of 43. John Worsfold, West Coast’s coach during their 2006 premiership and the current head of football, remembered Adam as a devoted club member who prioritized his teammates above all else. “He always aimed for our club’s success,” Worsfold said.
AFL CEO Andrew Dillon expressed empathy for the Selwood family, sending condolences to Adam’s wife, Fiona, and their two children, Marie and Bryce, as well as to Joel and Scott.
Originally from Bendigo, Adam moved to Perth in 2002 after being drafted to West Coast. Following his playing career, he transitioned to coaching within the Eagles organization and notably became the first director of the club’s women’s football team, playing a pivotal role in establishing their AFLW team.
A tribute to Selwood will take place during West Coast’s home game against St. Kilda at Optus Stadium on Sunday. Meanwhile, Scott Selwood was scheduled to assist Collingwood’s coach at the MCG but is taking personal leave during this difficult time.
