AFL star Jarryd Roughead has spoken publicly for the first time since it was revealed his cancer has returned. The Hawk remains positive about both his personal future and playing career.

Bryce Heaton reports.

TRANSCRIPT

Jarryd Roughead has faced many a tough battle on the footy field, but none that compares to his off-field battle.

The Hawthorn player had a melanoma cut out of his lip last year.

A routine scan a fortnight ago, revealed four small spots on Roughead’s lungs.

He’ll now take 12 months off, to undergo immune therapy.

But he isn’t at all ready to throw in the towel on football.

Jarryd Roughead, Hawthorn Player: “I mean I heard rumours I was gonna retire today but I’m 29, still got 2.5 years left on a deal so I’m not gonna give that up.”

He requested that fans continue to treat him as normal, and thanked them for their support.

Jarryd Roughead, Hawthorn Player: “Teammates, other opposition clubs, club’s fans, just the general public’ve been unreal. You know it’s not like a weekend when you have to choose one side or the other, everyone’s in your corner for this one.”

Roughead was keen to keep up the “business as usual” theme, training with the playing group following the press conference this morning.

He will continue to travel with the team and take up a match-day role in the coaches box.

Bryce Heaton, QUT News.