'Distressed' AFL star rescued from bottom of pool

A distressed Christian Petracca needed to be pulled out of a pool during a training incident on Tuesday.

The 23-year-old Demons star was taking part in an underwater exercise at the Melbourne Sports and Acquatic Centre.

The players were required to hold medicine balls underwater in a bid to improve their fitness.

The hypoxia method is said to increase the body's ability to operate with less oxygen.

A regular exercise among AFL clubs, Petracca has reportedly previously completed the task without issue.

Multiple reports state that in this instance the former No.2 draft pick almost lost consciousness.

He was rescued by the supervisor on hand and, according to AFL.com.au, "visibly distressed".

Petracca, who has kicked five goals in his six games this season, has taken part in traditional training since the incident.

He is expected to play on Saturday as Melbourne seek their second win of the season when they face Hawthorn at the MCG.