AFL footballer Jamarra Ugle-Hagan has shared a deeply personal and emotional tribute to his girlfriend Liv Kelly on social media, expressing profound gratitude for her support during a challenging period away from the sport. The 23-year-old full forward, who recently secured a career lifeline with the Gold Coast Suns, posted a gushing message on Instagram acknowledging Kelly's role in guiding him towards a positive direction.
Rebuilding a Career After Personal Struggles
Ugle-Hagan's public declaration comes at a pivotal moment in his professional journey. After sitting out the entire 2025 AFL season with the Western Bulldogs while confronting significant personal issues, including battles with mental health and suicidal thoughts, the former number one draft pick has been working to resurrect his football career. His move to the Gold Coast Suns in October represents a fresh start following what he has described as hitting "rock bottom" in his personal life.
Pre-Season Progress on the Gold Coast
According to reports from SEN radio, Ugle-Hagan has been making positive strides during pre-season training with his new club. Suns assistant coach Shaun Grigg provided encouraging feedback about the player's commitment and performance, noting that Ugle-Hagan has "earned the respect of everyone so far" through dedicated effort and hard work. The coaching staff have observed glimpses of his football ability and are focused on helping him build fitness and adapt to the team's playing style ahead of the upcoming season.
A Supportive Partnership Rekindled
The couple's relationship has played a significant role in Ugle-Hagan's recovery journey. After initially dating for eighteen months before separating at the end of 2024, Ugle-Hagan and Kelly reunited in December. His Instagram post celebrated her birthday with heartfelt words, describing her as "my love" and "my best friend" while expressing gratitude for her guidance toward "the right path." Kelly reciprocated with her own social media tribute, acknowledging how her partner makes "today and everyday special" in her life.
Confronting Mental Health Challenges
Ugle-Hagan has been open about the severity of his mental health struggles during his time away from football. In a candid podcast appearance, he revealed reaching a point where he needed to surrender his car keys to a friend because he didn't trust himself to drive, along with experiencing thoughts about whether life was "even worth living." The athlete sought professional help at a health retreat in northern New South Wales as part of his recovery process, describing a period when he didn't want to leave his house and felt he had reached the "basement" of his emotional wellbeing.
Looking Ahead to the 2026 Season
With his personal life stabilizing and his football career receiving renewed opportunity, Ugle-Hagan now prepares for Gold Coast's opening match of the 2026 AFL season against last year's grand finalists Geelong on March 6. His journey represents not just a sporting comeback but a personal transformation, with public acknowledgment of the support system that has helped him navigate difficult times. The football community will be watching with interest as this talented player seeks to fulfill his potential both on and off the field in the coming months.
