Western Bulldogs Coach Luke Beveridge Blasts 'Bad Influences' in Jamarra Ugle-Hagan Saga
Western Bulldogs coach Luke Beveridge has publicly criticised the 'bad influences' he claims derailed the career of former No.1 draft pick Jamarra Ugle-Hagan, admitting the club was left 'broken-hearted' when the talented forward departed for the Gold Coast Suns. The 23-year-old did not feature in a single senior AFL game during the 2025 season as he grappled with significant off-field issues, culminating in a shock trade to the Suns for pick 74 that sent ripples through the football community.
'He Just Lost His Way Off-Field,' Admits Beveridge
Beveridge has now explicitly stated that while the Bulldogs provided their full support to Ugle-Hagan, certain external factors ultimately proved beyond the club's control. 'He just lost his way off-field,' Beveridge told News Corp. 'We were obviously really concerned about it, and we are broken-hearted about it to a degree because we cared so much for him. So I think all of us just hope he is finding his way. And then he can play.'
The coach elaborated on the challenges faced, highlighting the difficulty in managing external pressures. 'Sometimes you can't control the bad influences in someone's life. And the vices they end up becoming vulnerable to. So we just hope he is going to be able to cleanse himself of all that and find his best footy again, and there will be no one happier than me.'
Comprehensive Support and a Dramatic Collapse
The Bulldogs organisation, in collaboration with the AFL, implemented a robust support system for Ugle-Hagan last year. This included arranging a stay in a rehabilitation facility after serious concerns emerged regarding his behaviour towards the end of 2024. 'Yes we did [support him fully], but there are things that are out of your control,' Beveridge conceded. 'Unfortunately he met people who influenced him in the wrong way.'
The downfall of Ugle-Hagan's promising career was stark and sudden. Selected as the number one pick in the 2020 AFL Draft, he had amassed 103 goals across 67 games and was widely regarded as the future cornerstone of the Bulldogs' attacking lineup. His complete absence from the 2025 season marked a dramatic reversal of fortune.
Ugle-Hagan's Candid Mental Health Revelation
Ugle-Hagan himself has spoken openly about the depth of his struggles during that period. 'All the noises actually sent me to a rehab facility for my mental health,' he revealed last year. 'It got to a point where I had to give my car to a mate so I couldn't drive, I just didn't trust myself driving. There were times when I would think about – to be honest with you – was it even worth living. I went through a struggle where I didn't want to leave the house. I hit rock bottom, and found [the] basement.'
A New Beginning on the Gold Coast
Since his move to Queensland on a one-year contract with the Suns, a more positive narrative has begun to unfold. Ugle-Hagan has actively shared content on social media depicting a dedicated training regimen, enjoyment of the Queensland climate, and a general embrace of life on the Gold Coast.
Significantly, he has also rekindled his relationship with former partner Liv Kelly, with the couple confirming their reconciliation in December 2024 after a prior split. Ugle-Hagan recently posted a heartfelt birthday message to Kelly on Instagram, writing: 'HB to my girl. My love. My best friend. Very grateful for you and for the way you've guided me toward the right path. I've got you forever.' Kelly responded in kind, calling him 'the man who made today and everyday special.'
Praise from New Coaches and Hopes for the Future
On the football front, Gold Coast assistant coach Shaun Grigg has noted the positive impact of the environmental change. 'To his credit he's showed up and earned the respect of everyone so far,' Grigg said. 'He's put his head down and worked really hard.'
For the Western Bulldogs faithful, witnessing their former key forward prosper in Suns colours may be a bittersweet experience, particularly if he recaptures the electrifying form that once earmarked him as a future star of the league. Coach Beveridge, however, maintains that his primary concern is for Ugle-Hagan's personal wellbeing above all else. 'If he finds continuity and a wholesome lifestyle, he's a chance again,' Beveridge stated. 'And we just want the best for him.'
If you or anyone you know needs support, you can contact Lifeline on 131 114, or Beyond Blue on 1300 224 636.
