FORMER Fremantle and Greater Western Sydney forward Cam McCarthy has died, aged 29.
McCarthy, who played in the AFL from 2014-2020, was found dead at Lake Coogee in Perth on Thursday evening. Both clubs confirmed the former player's death on Friday afternoon.
"The death is being treated as non-suspicious," WA Police said in a statement, adding a coronial report will be prepared.
The West Australian-born footballer was drafted by GWS with pick No.14 at the 2013 national draft.
He played 21 games for the Giants before leaving the Sydney club at the end of the 2015 season, citing mental health issues and homesickness.
After failing to engineer a trade to Fremantle for the 2016 season, McCarthy stood out of AFL football before being picked up by the Dockers.
The talented forward played 49 games for Fremantle in four seasons from 2017 before being delisted at the end of the 2020 season. During his last season in the AFL system, McCarthy was diagnosed with epilepsy after collapsing at training.
Overall, the talented forward played 70 AFL games and kicked 99 goals.
Fremantle CEO Simon Garlick said all at the club offered "their deepest sympathies" to McCarthy's family.
"His death is tragic, and to all of his family, friends and teammates, we extend our deepest condolences," Garlick said.
"Cam was a kind and easy-going person at the Club, and he was someone who had a habit of making people smile and laugh. His talent was undeniable and he loved his footy.
"Our thoughts are with Cam’s family and his loved ones during this time."
Sydney and Fremantle players held a moment's silence as a tribute to McCarthy ahead of their clash at Optus Stadium on Friday night
Greater Western Sydney CEO Dave Matthews also shared the club's sadness at McCarthy's death.
"We are saddened to learn of Cam’s passing. The news has had a profound impact on many current and former Giants players and staff," Matthews said.
"Cam had great energy and was a much-loved member of our club for the seasons he was here. He was very popular and a bright footballing talent.
"On behalf of the Giants, we extend our deepest sympathies to the entire McCarthy family and his many friends."
AFL CEO Andrew Dillon also extended the League's condolences.
"On behalf of everyone at the AFL, our deepest sympathies and thoughts are with the entire McCarthy family and Cam’s loved ones and friends, along with his former teammates from both Fremantle and GWS," Dillon said.
If you or anyone you know needs support, contact:
- Lifeline: 13 11 14 or lifeline.org.au
- 13YARN (13 92 76) or 13yarn.org.au
- Beyond Blue: 1300 22 4636 or beyondblue.org.au
- Domestic violence support: 1800 RESPECT (1800 737 732) or 1800respect.org.au
- Kids Helpline: 1800 55 1800 or kidshelpline.com.au
- headspace: 1800 650 890 or headspace.org.au
