St Kilda’s Jack Steven to take time away from football to deal with personal issue

St Kilda footy boss Simon Lethlean says Jack Steven “could hardly look his teammates in the eye” when the Saints organised a 10-day getaway as the struggling midfield star deals with a mental health issue.

Jack Steven will step away from footy. Pic: Michael Klein

St Kilda footy boss Simon Lethlean says Jack Steven “could hardly look his teammates in the eye” when the Saints organised a 10-day getaway as the struggling midfield star deals with a mental health issue.

The Herald Sun understands Steven is facing a personal family issue.

He is expected to miss several weeks of training but hopes to be available to play in Round 1.

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St Kilda star Jack Steven will spend time away from the club. Picture: AAP

Lethlean said Steven had been monitored closely as he struggled, but a meeting with the club’s doctor and player welfare manager had brought the issue to a head.

“We thought if it kept meandering along how he was feeling, the whole year could be affected,” Lethlean said on SEN Breakfast this morning.

“We felt that taking a bit of a bolder move and saying some time away could be the answer.

“It’s difficult … when it comes to someone like Jack, who’s dealing with an issue that many in society do, then its going to impact us.

“But we need to look after what’s best for Jack. These are the steps we will take in consultation with him to get himself back to the club with a smile on his face and doing what he loves.”

Lethlean said Steven would spend time “in a different environment with someone who he trusts” doing things outside of footy like fishing and golf and he was aware that his return to the club could take longer.

“Hopefully he comes back in 10 days to reinsert himself back into the program, but he might not,” he said.

The Saints hope Steven will be available for Round 1. Picture: Michael Klein

“Jacks a pretty free spirit who likes to please everyone.

“He could hardly look his teammates in the eye yesterday because he didn’t want to let them down.

“He’s that important to the team, so it’s a longish process, but you get a conclusion and hope that Jack comes back and plays great footy as soon as he can.”

The Saints released a statement yesterday afternoon, throwing their support behind their star midfielder.

“Jack’s decision to put his hand up and acknowledge that he needs some time away is a brave one,” Lethlean said.

“He is a much-loved member of our playing group and has the support of all his teammates, his coaches and all St Kilda supporters.”

Jack Steven will take a break away from the club in order to focus on his mental health and wellbeing.

— St Kilda FC (@stkildafc) February 26, 2019

Steven is a four-time best and fairest winner for the club and has played 176 matches.

The club says it won’t rush the 28-year-old.

“We ask that Jack be given the time and privacy to deal with this matter,” Lethlean said.

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