Imagine a world where your body is constantly scrutinized, and a few extra pounds can land you in a 'fat club'. This is the harsh reality that former AFL captain Dyson Heppell faced, revealing a shocking culture within the league. But here's where it gets controversial: Heppell claims this toxic environment still exists today.
Heppell, who played for Essendon from 2011 to 2024, opened up about his unhealthy relationship with food during his career. He described a culture where players were obsessed with their weight, saying, "You would set yourself a target, and if you didn't hit it, you'd be in the 'fat club'." This group was subjected to extra training to shed fat, a practice that seems more like a punishment than a health initiative. And this is the part most people miss: the psychological impact.
The 'fat club' wasn't just a catchy name; it was a source of shame and anxiety for players. Heppell recalls being in this group during his preseason due to a broken leg, which prevented him from reaching his 'skinny targets'. This experience highlights the extreme measures players felt pressured to take to conform to unrealistic body image standards.
The issue of disordered eating and body image concerns isn't unique to Heppell. Former NRL player Luke Bateman also spoke about similar 'fat clubs' in rugby league. In 2016, Carlton's 'fat club' made headlines, sparking criticism from sports administrator Brian Waldron, who called the name socially irresponsible. Despite this, the AFL has faced backlash for not doing enough to address these issues.
In 2024, the AFL banned skinfold testing for prospective draftees, but critics argue this doesn't go far enough. Former AFL coach Paul Roos even suggested that players concerned about their skinfold measurements should consider a different career. However, the league's efforts to reduce the focus on player weight haven't eradicated the problem, as Heppell confirms the existence of 'fat clubs' even today.
The impact of this culture extends beyond the players. A recent survey revealed that elite female athletes also struggle with body image and disordered eating. Former GWS player Cooper Hamilton has been vocal about his experiences with body dysmorphia and eating disorders, sharing how it affected his social life and performance.
The AFL's journey towards a healthier approach to body image is ongoing. While steps have been taken, the league must continue to address these issues to ensure the well-being of its players. The question remains: how can we create a culture that promotes health without fostering unhealthy relationships with food and body image? Share your thoughts below, especially if you have insights into balancing physical performance with mental health in professional sports.
