Jarryd Roughead News Update: Sidelined but not beaten, Hawthorn Hawks’ cancer-stricken Jarryd Roughead receives overwhelming support

Hawks’ legend Shane Crawford broke down in tears in an attempt to send a message across to his ill former teammate Jarryd Roughead on the “AFL Footy Show.”

After Hawks’ star player Roughead was indefinitely sidelined because of a cancerous melanoma, his family, friends and fans reacted by pouring their love and support.

9news reported that some of AFL’s biggest names recorded personalised videos to send messages of well wishes and encouragement to melanoma victim Roughead. Geelong’s Joel Selwood and Richmond’s Brett Deledio were among Roughead’s many supporters.

Beyond the big names, Hawks and Sydney fans will be rallying at the MCG blockbuster for Roughead, who was expected to be in attendance.

“He’s well loved by a lot of supporters from all clubs,” AFL Fans’ Association president Gerry Eeman said as reported by Herald Sun. The news made people realise that this isn’t just about football anymore. It goes beyond the field and that’s why fans and clubs took a step back to reach out to AFL’s beloved Roughead.

The ABC also reported that the Hawthorn Hawks haven’t completely moved on from the news yet.

“We’re all pretty shattered with what’s gone on in the past three or four days,” Hawthorn coach Alastair Clarkson said.

Responding to the overwhelming support, Clarkson told the media that Roughead visited the players just to express his gratitude and to let them know that above everything else, he would like everything to go back to normal.

Though Roughead will definitely not be able to participate in this season, he expects to perform an off-field role in Hawthorn’s 2016 games.

Here are some AFL reactions on Twitter: