A LACK of enjoyment from football has been one of the major factors in Travis Cloke taking time away from playing to deal with mental health issues, says Luke Beveridge.
The Bulldogs announced on Thursday night that Cloke would continue to train at the club, but would not play games at any level while he addressed his mental health.
The Dogs coach said the key forward had been battling to find passion for the game recently, but the club was right behind him in a tough time.
"We have had some conversations around trying to approach the game with an open mind and enjoying it, and he obviously hasn't been," Beveridge said on Friday.
"There's a seriousness in the sport, and finding a way to enjoy it and absolutely do your best is a challenge.
"The pressure of the game is one thing, but Travis has got other things going on his life that are compounding the mental wellbeing side of things.
"Hopefully when he does come back he can find a way to enjoy (football) a little bit."
