Collingwood’s Dayne Beams is taking an indefinite break from the AFL to focus on his mental health, the star midfielder intent on regathering himself after a difficult year.
Beams has said he will not return until he has dealt with his mental health issues, but is confident he can again dedicate himself to the sport.
The 29-year-old stepped down as captain of the Brisbane Lions last year as he struggled to come to terms with the death of his father in March.
“I have been on the record in the past about the battles I have fought,” Beams said in a club statement released on Wednesday.
“Right now, I need to step away and regather myself.
“I hope people will understand that this is something I need to do for myself and, importantly, my family.
“Our wellbeing is the highest priority.”
Beams, the Pies’ second-round pick in 2008, was traded to the Lions after the 2014 season to be closer to his dad as he battled cancer.
He returned to Collingwood via the October trade period, but was troubled by a hip problem in nine senior appearances.
He underwent surgery after round 11, which would have seen him struggle to return this season.
Beams is a best-and-fairest winner at Brisbane and Collingwood, an All Australian in 2012 and was part of the Pies’ 2010 premiership side.
The Roar encourages all readers who may be suffering from mental illness to seek support from organisations such as Lifeline, Beyond Blue or Headspace.
Peter Warrington
Guest
Hope he gets well and can play again soon.
Peter the Scribe
Roar Guru
Beams was only a very minimal chance to play very late this year, potentially a prelim with no trial games. In reality all this announcement does is take him away from the club and maximise an enforced physical lay off to deal with his mental health as well as his physical. It makes sense to diffuse any expectation of playing, or sitting in rehab in The Holden Centre. Beamsy can come back physically and mentally well in 2020 and still be a very worthwhile contributor and perhaps defy the doomsdayers lamenting the deal back to the Pies. Chris Mayne is a perfect example. Year one of an extraordinary deal was bad for player and club. Mayne reinvented himself with a great second year, and now sits as one of the first picked in year three. At this rate he will command a new deal next year. Beams may well come back strong in year two of the new deal and help the Pies win a flag. In the meantime, go off and get yourself well.
Paul D
Roar Guru
Good luck to him. Sentimentality isn't a great currency at the trade table. I wonder who the Lions will take with Collingwood's first rounder this year.