Western Bulldogs forward Jamarra Ugle-Hagan is expected to resume training this week after a lengthy absence that extended throughout the off-season. Unfortunately, Ugle-Hagan has already been ruled out of the Bulldogs’ opening match against the Kangaroos this Saturday, with his future participation remaining uncertain.
Nine’s chief AFL reporter, Tom Morris, has shared that Ugle-Hagan is set to return to training on Thursday, following his notification to the club. This entry comes on the heels of reports that he missed multiple training sessions after the Labour Day long weekend, a situation the Bulldogs were aware of. Morris commented that Ugle-Hagan’s progress is a “work in progress” and stressed the non-linear nature of his journey back to the field.
The 22-year-old has been undergoing flexible training arrangements due to personal challenges. Although he previously indicated his readiness to resume training, he will need a concerted training period to be deemed fit for selection. Morris noted that if Ugle-Hagan consistently attends training over the coming weeks, he may become available; however, continued absences could delay his return until mid-year.
Ugle-Hagan has openly shared his struggles with personal matters, including family loss, which have affected his ability to balance his training and personal life. He remarked on the difficulties of these challenges but expressed a desire to engage fully with his football again. Bulldogs captain Marcus Bontempelli acknowledged the public interest in Ugle-Hagan’s situation while emphasising the club’s priority of supporting him through his personal challenges.
Last season, Ugle-Hagan took a personal leave of absence that saw him miss two matches to return to his hometown in south-west Victoria. Since his debut in 2021, he has played 63 senior games, scoring 103 goals. He committed to the Bulldogs with a two-year contract extension last May, ensuring his future with the club until at least 2026.