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WATCH: Field of Dreams finalists"A challenge for everyone": Bont breaks silence on JUH trade
SEN • November 14th, 2025 2:59 pm
Marcus Bontempelli has spoken about Jamarra Ugle-Hagan’s departure from the Bulldogs for the first time.
After a tumultuous 2025 season, during which Ugle-Hagan did not play a single game for his club and made relentless headlines for off-field issues, he was granted a lifeline with Damien Hardwick and the Gold Coast Suns during the trade period.
The 23-year-old, who spent time in a rehab facility during the year, is believed to have taken a pay-cut upwards of $7000,000 a year in order to get his career and life back on track.
His move to Queensland was confirmed on the final day of the trade period, and Bontempelli has added his voice to those hoping for a positive redemption story.
“That was a probably the end of the arc in terms of Jamarra and his story line,” the Bulldogs captain said at a State of Origin media conference on Friday.
“It’s been a challenge for everyone. I’m happy for him and hopefully this can be the change that he needs to get back to enjoying himself and his football.
“Jamarra not being on the football field is the wrong thing for the AFL.
“Everyone wants to see him doing his best and showing his talents. My hope is for him his football and his life this is the best move and gets him back our on the field.”
Bontempelli was today one of eight players unveiled to take part in the Origin match next February.
Vics selector and SEN regular, Garry Lyon named the 29-year-old alongside Zak Butters, Jeremy Cameron and reigning Brownlow medallist Matt Rowell.
WA meanwhile unveiled Patrick Cripps, Shai Bolton, Tom Barrass and Aaron Naughton.
Dean Cox will coach the WA side while Chris Scott will lead the Vics.
Dean Cox will coach the WA side while Chris Scott will lead the Vics.
“After sitting down with Garry Lyon, it was quickly apparent there’s a phenomenal talent pool to pick from and it’s fantastic to have Marcus, Matt, Zak and Jeremy commit to the Vics,” Scott said.
“Marcus, Matt, Zak and Jeremy are elite players in their own right and embody what is great about our game and what Origin football represents and as we edge closer to the game, there’s a real sense of anticipation building.
“I know I speak for all the boys when I say there’s enormous pride and excitement about pulling on the Big V and representing our state.”
