The Carlton Football Club has officially submitted its internal findings regarding Elijah Hollands' mental health episode to the AFL, as external investigations continue to unfold. The league and Victoria's workplace safety regulator, WorkSafe, are both scrutinizing the events surrounding the Round 6 incident, with particular focus on the Blues' awareness and management of the 23-year-old's condition. Hollands remains sidelined and away from the club as the process continues.
Club's Statement and Ongoing Investigations
Carlton has emphasized that its internal probe aims to improve how similar situations are handled in the future, though the possibility of sanctions remains on the table. In a statement released on Thursday night, the club said: "The Carlton Football Club continues to prioritise the welfare of Elijah Hollands, alongside providing ongoing support for his family and our club’s people, through what remains a complex and challenging time."
The club confirmed it had responded to the AFL's request for information regarding the circumstances of Hollands' condition and the club's actions during the Round 6 match. "The club understands the significant interest in this matter; however, out of respect for the sensitives involved, the club will not be providing further comment until the AFL process has been finalised," the statement added. "We thank our members and the public for their patience and understanding as the club continues to work through this matter alongside the AFL and the AFLPA, with a high level of sensitivity, care and diligence."
Coach Voss Defends Club Amid Criticism
The update came just hours after Carlton coach Michael Voss claimed the club was being "bullied" by outsiders. Voss did not provide an update on Hollands' condition, noting that he had been communicating with the player's family rather than directly with Hollands. "The AFL’s looking into everything at this point in time so there is a process that clearly is underway," Voss said. "I think we let that process play out — so we welcome what that will actually look like and I’m sure there’ll be some findings at the back of it."
Voss defended the club's management of the 23-year-old on matchday, which has faced heavy public scrutiny. Widely circulated videos showed Hollands displaying unusual behaviour before the game against Collingwood, and he finished the match with just one disposal before being benched in the final quarter. "Unfortunately rather make this a private challenge, we’ve made this a public event so the commentary, the conversation, the ball-by-ball play ... and in some ways, like I’ll be really honest, it’s felt like bordering on bullying," Voss said.
"Rather than show compassion and empathy through a really difficult situation, we (people) are being really judgemental with knowing little facts, without understanding history and background, and we’ve drawn our own outcomes. I think our people are being bullied, and I think we (people) bully for outcomes, and all I’d just say is that we need to take into consideration the people involved in this — this impacts families."
If you need help in a crisis, call Lifeline on 13 11 14. For further information about depression contact beyondblue on 1300224636 or talk to your GP, local health professional or someone you trust.
