Adelaide captain Jordan Dawson became visibly emotional Tuesday night as he accepted the Robert Rose Most Courageous Player award at the AFL Awards ceremony, speaking candidly about the struggle of coping with the death of his elder brother.
Dawson's brother, Jaryd, died in April at the age of 35. Despite the profound personal tragedy, Dawson returned to football just one week later and led the Adelaide Crows to sixth place in the league standings, completing another standout individual season.
At the awards ceremony, Dawson received multiple honors, including the AFLPA Best Captain award and his third All-Australian selection, where he was named vice-captain. However, his acceptance speech for the Most Courageous Player award resonated deeply.
When asked by host Jonathan Brown about his resilience through the difficult year, Dawson admitted the grief remained raw. "It's been a struggle; it's not easy. It's a range of emotions. They come at different times," he said, visibly moved as images of his wife Milly and father Tony in the audience were shown.
He credited his club, family, and wife's family for creating a supportive environment where he felt comfortable discussing his grief. "It's just about creating a safe place within the footy place, within home," Dawson explained. "Understanding that there'll be times where I struggle to come into work, but the footy club's been awesome in that space." He emphasized the importance of ongoing conversations about how everyone is dealing with their loss.
Dawson also extended a message to those experiencing mental health challenges. "I just want to wish anyone who's struggled with mental health out there, or who is struggling with mental health, to know that you are definitely loved, and the world is a better place with you in it," he stated. "And that you are enough, and that we all love you, and that you have beautiful family and friends around you."
Melbourne captain Max Gawn, who was named captain of the All-Australian team, later praised Dawson's vulnerability and leadership. "I think for Jordan to get up and do what he did, to speak about mental health, to lead his side through the tragedy that happened with his family, and then to show vulnerability in front of a group of strangers that he hasn't got it right, he hasn't got it perfect and asking for help, that's a captain that I want to be behind," Gawn said.
Dawson's return to the field after his brother's death saw him record 28 disposals and two goals against the Brisbane Lions. He was seen kissing his black armband after scoring a goal, and later became overwhelmed with emotion after the final siren.