AFL world sends outpouring of messages after news about Joel Selwood and wife emerges

The AFL community has sent a flood of congratulatory messages after Joel Selwood and wife Brit revealed they're expecting their second child. Joel and Brit Selwood took to social media on Tuesday to share the happy news alongside a photo of son Joey and a 'Big brother to-do list'.

"Joey's still working out if he can sign the contract...he's got until October," the caption reads. "We're excited to be adding to the family."

Selwood's former teammate Jeremy Cameron was among the many to send their congratulations, as was high-profile WAG Bec Judd. Cameron called it the "best news", while Judd commented: “Amazing news".

Geelong champion Gary Ablett Jr and Channel 7 commentator Abbey Holmes also sent well-wishes. "YAY!!!! Brilliant news. Congratulations guys," wrote former AFLW player Holmes.

Joel Selwood and wife's difficult fertility journey

The Selwoods welcomed Joey into the world in February last year after a long IVF journey. The wonderful news came just five months after Selwood retired from the AFL after winning the 2022 grand final with Geelong.

In announcing their pregnancy earlier in 2022, Brit opened up on their struggles to conceive. “Joel and I are grateful to be able to share that we have a little one coming into the world," she wrote. "We couldn’t do this announcement without acknowledging those who are struggling with infertility or loss.

“I know how much my heart would break every time I saw a pregnancy post and my heart truly goes out to you if that’s how you’re feeling right now. These past few years have changed me forever. For anyone who has lost hope right now, I’ve been there and I’m thinking of you, and I hope one day soon, you get your miracle.”

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Joel previously paid tribute to his wife and her strength, saying: “What I have worked out through this process is that women are amazing and my wife is a superwoman. In a journey that hasn’t been easy, we have found a way, through great support and Brit staying positive. To couples, who are trying, have tried or can’t have a baby for some unfair reason, we see you and are sending love and positive energy your way.”

Joel Selwood now working with AFL and Channel 7

Selwood played 355 AFL games for Geelong and won four premierships. He was a six-time All-Australian and three-time captain of the All-Australian team, and bowed out of the game after winning his fourth flag in 2022. He has since joined Channel 7 in a commentary role and has proven to be popular behind the microphone.

The 36-year-old has also done some work with the Melbourne Storm in the NRL and currently holds a role with the AFL’s football department. Selwood helps out with game analysis, player engagement and player movement across the AFL and AFLW.

“I look forward to working at the AFL, especially with the team lead by (football manager) Laura Kane,” Selwood said last year when accepting the role for 2024. “The game of AFL I have always loved and now it’s time to help it continually grow from a different seat which I can’t wait for.”