Adam Treloar’s Withdrawal from VFL Match Raises Concerns
Western Bulldogs midfielder Adam Treloar has been withdrawn from the team’s VFL match against Essendon on Sunday afternoon. The decision was made due to general soreness, which has raised concerns given Treloar’s history of soft tissue injuries. Many believe this could be his final season at the level, adding to the uncertainty surrounding his future with the club.
The timing of the withdrawal is particularly frustrating for the 33-year-old veteran. The upcoming week features a VFL bye due to a state game being held during the Gather Round, meaning there will be no VFL matches next weekend. This makes the current situation even more challenging for Treloar, as it limits his opportunities to prove his fitness and secure a spot in the lineup.
Treloar’s pre-season has been disrupted by a calf injury, which echoes a similar issue he faced last year. Throughout his career, he has also dealt with recurring hamstring problems, further complicating his ability to maintain consistent performance at the AFL level.
Despite these challenges, Treloar has had moments of success. He was awarded a one-year contract extension in September 2024, following a strong 2024 season that earned him an All Australian blazer. In addition, he won the Western Bulldogs’ best and fairest award in 2022, highlighting his contributions to the team.
Treloar played a crucial role in Footscray’s VFL premiership victory last year, showcasing his leadership and skill on the field. However, his impact at the AFL level has been limited. In the previous season, he only managed to play four games, and he has yet to make an appearance in the 2026 season.
With the Western Bulldogs boasting a wealth of on-ball options, including Marcus Bontempelli, Joel Freijah, Ed Richards, Tom Liberatore, and Ryley Sanders, finding a place for Treloar in the starting lineup will be difficult. His career has primarily been spent as a pure midfielder, making it harder for him to compete with players who offer more versatility.
So far, Treloar has played 85 of his 258 games for the Dogs since joining the club ahead of the 2021 season. His experience and dedication have made him a valuable player, but the combination of injuries and competition for spots has made his position at the club increasingly uncertain.
As the season progresses, it remains to be seen whether Treloar can overcome these challenges and continue his career at the highest level. For now, his withdrawal from the VFL match highlights the ongoing struggles he faces, both physically and in terms of securing regular playing time.
