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Carlton's Elijah Hollands hospitalized after mental health episode

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Key Points
  • Elijah Hollands hospitalized after mental health episode during match
  • Carlton denies substance influence, launches internal review
  • AFL requests review outcome, questions about pre-game behavior and history

Carlton chief executive Graham Wright said the club does not suspect Hollands was under the influence of any drug or substance. Hollands will not travel to Perth with Carlton for its match against Fremantle this weekend. The club has launched an internal review examining Hollands' lead-up to the game, including his preparation and movements before taking the field, as well as the decisions made during the match.

The AFL has requested Carlton to provide the outcome of its review of the circumstances relating to Hollands' fitness to play in Thursday night's match. Collingwood players informed AFL officials that Hollands told them he had been drinking before the game. Hollands displayed unusual and erratic behavior before and during the match against Collingwood.

This is my beautiful boy. For anyone in the midst of healing… you are loved. You have a unique and defined purpose. You are seen whole. I know who my son is and I will lift him up until he is restored in full. For those supporting someone who is struggling: encourage them, affirm them, and love them. Go to them, remind them of who they truly are.

Ben Hollands, Elijah Hollands' father

He has a history of mental health battles and a struggle with alcohol. The exact nature and findings of Carlton's internal review remain unclear, and it is unknown whether Hollands was drug or alcohol tested after the incident. According to Daily Mail - Sport, Caroline Wilson described uncertainty about drug involvement and testing, noting high anxiety and a mental health episode.

Hollands' father, Ben Hollands, posted on social media expressing support for his son, while his grandfather, Bert Hollands, added family support. Wright commented at a press conference that he had not heard anything from Collingwood or the AFL about the reported drinking.

Our beautiful grandson, you. We're born with that smile, many great times to come. As a family we fight for each other, with so much love and prayers.

Bert Hollands, Elijah Hollands' grandfather

Sam Edmund said yesterday drugs were not involved. I am not sure where he got that information but I certainly can't confirm that. I don't know if he was drug tested. Obviously, (he has) high anxiety and had a mental health episode.

Caroline Wilson, veteran AFL journalist
Corroborated
Daily Mail - SportDaily Mail - SportThe Guardian - Main UK
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Carlton's Elijah Hollands hospitalized after mental health episode | Reed News