Former AFL player Harley Balic has tragically died, aged 25.
Balic passed away suddenly on Sunday morning in Victoria, just days after celebrating his 25th birthday.
A Victorian Police statement provided to Leader Newspapers said the death was not being treated as suspicious and a report would be prepared for the coroner.
Balic was drafted out of the Sandringham Dragons by the Dockers as the No. 38 pick in the 2015 AFL Draft.
He would debut for Fremantle in 2017 and play four games before requesting a trade at the end of the year and joining the Melbourne Demons the folllowing season.
Balic announced his AFL retirement in August 2018 after losing passion for the game at the age of 21.
“It’s something I’m not going to regret and I’m very appreciative to Melbourne for letting me come to the club for a second chance,” he said at the time.
“I’ve always loved football, but my heart’s not in it and everything ends up being a grind and I think it’s just the right thing to do.
“The (club’s) VFL and AFL (teams) are both going to be successful this year and it’s something I’d love to be a part of, if I loved it, but unfortunately I don’t and it’s time to go out into the real world and see what else is out there for me.”
Awful news regarding former @freodockers and @melbournefc player Harley Balic.
— Ryan Daniels (@FootyRhino) January 10, 2022
Thoughts with his family and friends.
If you’re struggling, please reach out. @LifelineAust.
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Many people in the AFL community paid tribute to Balic after the announcement of his passing.
Former Dockers midfielder Harley Bennell posted on Instagram: “RIP my little HB … I’ll always love you little brother.”
Collingwood AFLW coach Steph Ciocci post on Twitter: "Saddened to hear of the passing of Harley Balic. A former Parkdale SC student and one of the most talented junior footballers I had the pleasure of witnessing. So athletic and agile and could run all day. Rest easy, Harley.”
If you or anyone you know is struggling call Lifeline 13 11 14 or click on lifeline.org.au.
