Melbourne have given forward Liam Jurrah personal leave from the AFL club to help out his family and community.
It is expected Jurrah will be back at the club soon.
Jurrah, 23, is a member of the Warlpiri indigenous people who live in the Northern Territory.
He was Melbourne’s leading goalkicker last season with 40 and has played 35 senior games for the Demons since his 2009 debut.
Off-season surgery had already delayed his start to the season.
“Jurrah has been granted personal leave to return home to support his family and community through a challenging period,” the Demons said in a statement.
“The club is totally understanding and supportive of Liam and is in close communication with him.
“Liam has had an interrupted pre-season following wrist surgery.
“He will continue his rehabilitation and training program upon his return to Melbourne.”