REACTION TO LANCE FRANKLIN SITTING OUT THE AFL QUALIFYING FINAL DUE TO AN ONGOING MENTAL ILLNESS:
JOHN LONGMIRE, Swans coach: “It has been an ongoing issue for a while with Lance but these things are very private … It is an issue in sport, it is an issue in the AFL and it is an issue in the community.”
TOM HARLEY, Swans general manager of football: “Our first priority is looking after Lance’s health.”
FRANK QUINLAN, CEO of Mental Health Australia: “Props to @SydneySwans for looking after player #MentalHealth Take your time and get well @Buddy_Franklin see you back out there soon!”
JARRAD MCVEIGH, Swans player: “Obviously it is a shock to a lot of the boys. Bud is in a place where he can get the best support at the moment.”
NICK DAVIS, former Swans player: “Much luv Bruz @Buddy_Franklin.”
GREG HIRE, Perth Wildcats basketballer: “Brave, fearless & confident when you think about Buddy Franklin & his feats. Takes real courage to step away from footy to address issues.”
REACHOUT.COM: “Hats off to @Buddy_Franklin and the @sydneyswans for making mental health a priority.”
MARTIN FOLEY, MP: “Wishing Buddy a quick recovery – a pointer to how #mentalhealth & well being is everyone’s business #endstigma”
ANDREW PRIDHAM, Swans chairman: “Lance has our full support. His wellbeing is our primary focus. out of respect for his privacy @sydneyswans will make no further comment.”