Essendon youngster Aaron Francis admits he came close to walking away from the AFL as he battled mental health issues earlier this year.
But the round 22 Rising Star nominee is so glad he didn't and rightly proud of what he's achieved since he took personal leave in February.
After a trade request didn't pan out at the end of last year, a struggling Francis took time out back home in South Australia.
The time away from the glare of the AFL spotlight allowed him to reflect on his life and seek counsel from trusted friends and family.
"This year has been massive for me in terms of my personal growth," Francis said.
"I've learnt a lot and put a lot of things in place that will help me in future years. I'm really happy with the decision I made at the start of the year ... it has really helped my football and off-field especially.
"I'm proud of what I've done and I'm also proud of my teammates who have really helped me get through a tough time."
In his fourth game this season and ninth of his career, Francis impressed in the back half to earn the Rising Star nod in the Bombers' tight loss to Richmond.
The 21-year-old, who was pick No.6 at the 2015 draft, is contracted for next year but is intent on signing a new deal having found balance in his life.
"I do see my future here at Essendon," he said.
"... I knew that I never wanted to (walk away from the game), it was a decision that I never wanted to make but it did come across my mind a fair bit.
"I thought that I'd probably never come back but I'm definitely glad that I did take that time off. It was probably the best decision I've made."
Lifeline 13 11 14
beyondblue 1300 22 4636
Share
