Ex-AFL player Cam McCarthy found dead, aged 29
Former GWS and Fremantle player Cam McCarthy has died at the age of 29.
Former Fremantle and GWS forward Cam McCarthy has died, aged 29.
McCarthy, who played in the AFL from 2014-2020, was found dead at Lake Coogee in Perth on Thursday evening.
“The death is being treated as non-suspicious,” WA Police said in a statement, adding a coronial report would be prepared.
The West Australian-born footballer was drafted by GWS with pick No.14 at the 2013 national draft.
He played 21 games for the Giants before leaving the Sydney club at the end of the 2015 season, citing mental health issues and homesickness.
After failing to engineer a trade to Fremantle for the 2016 season, McCarthy stood out of AFL football before being picked up by the Dockers.
The talented forward played 49 games for Fremantle in four seasons from 2017 before being delisted at the end of the 2020 season.
During his last season in the AFL system, McCarthy was diagnosed with epilepsy after collapsing at training.
Overall, the talented forward played 70 AFL games and kicked 99 goals.
GWS chief executive David Matthews said news of McCarthy’s death had a “profound impact on many current and former Giants players and staff”.
“Cam had great energy and was a much-loved member of our club for the seasons he was here,” Matthews said.
“He was very popular and a bright footballing talent. We extend our deepest sympathies to the entire McCarthy family and his many friends.”
AFL Players Association chief executive Paul Marsh also offered support to McCarthy’s family and friends.
“This is a terribly sad time and we will make available whatever services and support Cam’s family, former teammates and his two football clubs may need during this tough time,” Marsh said.
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