Scrutiny can be hard to bear, says Scott

SCRUTINY and stresses placed on AFL footballers is contributing to mental health issues, Geelong coach Chris Scott says.

Collingwood forward Alex Fasolo is the latest player to request time away from the game to deal with depression and will miss his side’s clash against Fremantle on Sunday.

Scott said there was no doubt players have never been under more pressure.

“The short answer is, yes, I think (scrutiny) is having an impact,” he said.

“The harder question is what we do about it. I think acknowledging that it is a challenging life for a lot of the players, I think there is a big focus on all the positives, and there are multiple positives for AFL players.

“I don’t think too many are complaining about the opportunities that are put in front of them. But, at least in my view, the game is harder to play now than it was 10 years ago, and 10 years ago it was harder to play than the 10 years prior.”

Scott said the outside perception that AFL players lived an extravagant life was a misconception.

“I think the easy comment to make is that football players have got it made and should thank themselves lucky for the fortunate position that they hold within society,” he said.

“I think a better question to acknowledge is there are some difficulties as well. Players, irrespective of their status within the game, will need some support to get through the tough times.”