How did Troy Selwood die? A tragic loss at 40

Troy William Selwood (1 May 1984 – 4 February 2025) was a respected footy player and coach who made his mark in Aussie rules. He was drafted by the Brisbane Lions in 2002 and went on to play 75 AFL games, with the bulk of his career taking place between 2005 and 2010. After retiring, he captained Geelong’s VFL side (2011–2013) before taking on several important off-field roles at the Geelong Football Club and Geelong Grammar School.

Following his sudden passing, many in the AFL community were left asking: How did Troy Selwood die? His death was later confirmed as suicide at the age of 40. In this article, we explore the circumstances surrounding Troy Selwood’s tragic passing and reflect on his legacy.

How did Troy Selwood die?

On 4 February 2025, Troy Selwood was found deceased at his property in Highton, Victoria. The cause of death was confirmed to be suicide. He was 40 years old. The announcement left fans, former teammates, and the broader community in mourning, with many struggling to comprehend the loss of someone who had given so much to the sport and the people around him.

His death sparked widespread discussions about the pressures athletes face during and after their careers. It also highlighted the importance of addressing mental health, not only among current players but also among those who have transitioned out of professional sports.

Family tributes: Courage, compassion, connection

The Selwood Family remembered Troy as a man of incredible courage, compassion, and love. In the tributes, they spoke of his kindness, moral foundations, and how he made friends with everyone on the planet. They remembered how special he was to them as a brother, son, and mentor, and how they all treasured their time with him. They expressed not only their sadness, but the immense pride and happiness that resonated from how well he lived his life.

Troy Selwood: A legacy of leadership on and off the field

• On-field: A well-documented fierce tagger and midfielder now playing 75 AFL games and a proud captain of the VFL premiership side.
• Off-field: A wonderfully effective recruiter, youth mentor, and trainer who guided young athletes and influenced many people. 
• Family and community: Are remembered for his warmth, empathy, humour, and stewardship of community—a perfect case study of a real person who made others better.  

Beyond the game: Why mental health in footy can’t be ignored

Troy Selwood’s sudden and tragic death at age 40 is a devastating reminder to all that mental health issues can affect anyone, no matter their success, leadership, or status as a public figure. For the footy world, it presents a clear and urgent message: mental health must be treated as seriously as physical health. 

That means AFL clubs, players, and support staff must look beyond well-being exercises. Real change requires:

• Ongoing support for before, during, and after a player’s career.
• Creating safe environments where athletes feel comfortable discussing their struggles.
• Educating coaches and teammates to help identify warning signs.
• A greater focus on life after footy, particularly around identity, purpose, and connection. 

Football and community impact 

Troy Selwood was always creating a legacy on and off the field. Troy was an AFL player and, more recently, a mentor who placed his imprint on with leadership on young sports people. Through his contribution to football, he had a substantial impact on young people, but his contribution came through with youth and education beyond sport. Troy’s untimely death has left lots of broken hearts in the hearts of many of his peers and his fans.

Mental health resources 

Lifeline- 13 11 14

If you’re facing a tough time or a crisis, Lifeline is here for a chat 24/7. It’s all free and confidential, and there is always someone listening at the end of the line. 

Beyond Blue – 1300 22 4636

When anxiety or the blues are affecting your day-to-day, get in touch with Beyond Blue. They’ve got trained staff ready for a yarn any day of the week, 24/7. 

Suicide Call Back Service – 1300 659 467

If you need to talk to someone about suicidal thoughts, this service provides free phone counselling and support 24/7. 

MensLine- 1300 78 99 78

For blokes experiencing relationship struggles, domestic violence, anger or mental health, MensLine is private help available to you need it, whenever you need it.

Final thoughts 

Troy Selwood’s death is a stark reminder that emotional pain doesn’t always present itself. As Australians who are die-hard footy lovers and take great pride in being part of our communities, it is an absolute necessity that we treat mental health with the same respect as we do physical health. In the days following his passing, many were left asking how did Troy Selwood die—his death, sadly confirmed as suicide, shook the football world. Troy’s life and legacy remind us all to reach out, check in, connect, and care for each other, especially when someone may look as if their lamp is dim.