Massive twist in Elijah Hollands saga as second incident emerges

Massive twist in Elijah Hollands saga as second incident emerges

The Elijah Hollands saga has widened with a bombshell report suggesting Carlton is aware of a second incident.

Carlton has attempted to manage Elijah Hollands through mental health episodes during games more than once, it has emerged.

In a major twist to the saga, a report claims Hollands was able to keep playing during a similar episode last season.

The football club is yet to complete its review into the incident after the 23-year-old showed signs of erratic behaviour during his club’s loss to Collingwood at the MCG last week.

Hollands was hospitalised on Monday night, the football club confirmed.

Now, The Age reports Hollands managed to play through another issue during the team’s Round 10 loss to the Swans at the SCG in May last year.

AFL Media stats show Hollands played out the game and finished with 20 disposals, four marks and four tackles.

Photos and available footage from the match show Hollands did not appear to show any obvious signs of unusual behaviour.

Carlton chief executive Graham Wright confirmed during a press conference on Sunday the club was aware of Hollands behaviour during the game.

Wright described Hollands’ issues as “unprecedented and complex”.

“We were aware that he was struggling in the game and he’s (previously) had … anxiety and panic attacks,” he said.

Elijah Hollands made a contribution to the club during the team’s loss to the Swans at the SCG. Photo by Cameron Spencer/Getty Images)

Elijah Hollands made a contribution to the club during the team’s loss to the Swans at the SCG. Photo by Cameron Spencer/Getty Images)

“Our guys were dealing with him in the game and obviously knew that he was having some problems.”

Widely circulated videos showed Hollands showing signs of unusual behaviour before the game against the Magpies even started.

He finished the contest with one disposal for the match before he was benched in the final quarter.

It comes as reports emerged Victorian workplace safety watchdog WorkSafe will ask questions about the club’s handling of the incident.

“WorkSafe is assessing the matter to determine whether any action is required under the Occupational Health and Safety Act,” a WorkSafe spokesman told Code Sports.

The Age also reports Hollands was at some point on a structured treatment plan.

Ben Hollands (right) with his sons Ollie and Elijah in the Carlton rooms. Picture: Instagram

Ben Hollands (right) with his sons Ollie and Elijah in the Carlton rooms. Picture: Instagram

Hollands has been open in sharing his ongoing challenges with mental health and took leave away from the club twice in 2025.

Last year, Carlton coach Michael Voss confirmed the club had asked Hollands to explore his options to find a new club, explaining he was “disappointed” with some of Hollands’ behaviour.

He was delisted by Carlton after the 2025 season but was given the opportunity to train during the off-season and was added to the club’s rookie list in the pre-season supplemental selection period.

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Hollands’ dad Ben earlier this week took to Instagram to share a message from the family.

“This is my beautiful boy,” Ben wrote.

“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.

Elijah Hollands' brother Ollie has issued a statement after the Blues forward was admitted to hospital. Picture: Instagram

Elijah Hollands’ brother Ollie has issued a statement after the Blues forward was admitted to hospital. Picture: Instagram

“Go to them, remind them of who they truly are.”

Ollie Hollands — Elijah’s brother, who also plays for Carlton — took to Instagram to issue thanks to the club, supporters and the “greater AFL community” for all their “support and love”.

“There are no words to describe how grateful we are for all the love and support Elijah and our family have received,” he wrote.

“It’s incredibly challenging watching your own brother go through something like this but the amount of support that we have received has been overwhelming and as a family we will be forever grateful.

“Love you Roger (Elijah).”

The findings of Carlton’s review will reportedly be handed over to the AFL in coming days.

— with NewsWire