GWS Giants’ Cam McCarthy still no closer to returning to football as he battles mental health condition

TROUBLED Greater Western Sydney forward Cam McCarthy is no closer to returning to football as he battles a serious disorder.


McCarthy returned home to Perth a fortnight ago where it was hoped medical care and being close to family would solve his personal problems.

But the Herald Sun understands the goalkicker is highly unlikely to play this year.

McCarthy, 20, is believed to be suffering from depression and an adjustment disorder that requires medication. He isn’t following a set training program, with his sole focus on returning to full health.

The Giants refused to trade him to Fremantle last year despite the Dockers offering two first-round selections. The Giants were told of McCarthy’s issues, but refused to entertain an exchange and in the end, had shut Fremantle out.

GWS last month granted McCarthy indefinite leave after being told by medical experts that it was best for the player’s health to return home.


McCarthy was one of the surprise packets of 2015, kicking 29 goals after only 12 rounds before descending on a downward spiral he’s still trying to recover from.

He signed a contract extension through to the end of 2017 during his 2014 debut season, but has since struggled after it became harder for his parents to visit him.

McCarthy’s manager Colin Young declined to comment on Thursday.


GWS said their position hadn’t changed from last month when chief executive David Matthews expressed hope that McCarthy would return.

“There’s no rush from our point of view. It’s an opportunity for Cam to take pressure off and just take some time away from the game,” he said.

“Our expectation will be he gets himself in a right frame of mind, feels good, and wants to come back and be a professional player at the Giants.”

Coach Leon Cameron said at the time that football was secondary for McCarthy.

“If he can play with the Giants this year, it would be magnificent for us,” Cameron said.

“He’s a highly talented, respected player. He nearly kicked 40 goals in his second year of AFL football as a key young forward.

“That sort of talent is pretty hard to come by.”