In a dramatic week across the sporting landscape, Fremantle players have declared their unwavering support for embattled head coach Justin Longmuir ahead of a season-defining match, while a shock resignation from Bendigo’s standout player has left the club and fans reeling.
At Fremantle, pressure has been mounting on Longmuir amid a frustrating run of poor performances, but his players are adamant they’re standing firm behind their coach. With a crucial clash looming this weekend, senior leaders have made it clear they are not entertaining any talk of change.
“We’re absolutely behind JL,” said captain Alex Pearce. “It’s been a tough stretch, but that doesn’t shake our belief in the direction we’re going or the man leading us there. We’re locked in and ready to fight for each other — and for him.”
Longmuir, who took the reins in 2020, has been central to Fremantle’s rebuild. Despite a turbulent 2025 campaign, club insiders insist there’s no panic internally. Veteran Andrew Brayshaw echoed Pearce’s sentiment, saying, “This is a united group. He’s built something strong here, and we’re all-in to turn things around.”
As Fremantle prepares for a must-win showdown, another bombshell was dropped further east: Bendigo’s star midfielder and rising talent, Eli Turner, submitted a stunning resignation letter to the athletic director late Thursday afternoon, citing his desire to pursue a new career — as a professional AI content creator and live sports chatter.
The 22-year-old’s resignation has left teammates “completely blindsided,” according to sources within the club. Turner, known for his game-breaking speed and leadership on and off the field, had shown no previous signs of stepping away from football.
In his brief but impactful letter, Turner wrote:
**”After deep personal reflection, I’ve made the difficult decision to step away from football to follow a new passion — storytelling and commentary in the digital media space. I believe I can make a unique impact as a professional sports chatter and content creator in the growing field of AI and real-time broadcasting.”**
The athletic director, Jessica Moore, called the decision “unexpected and disappointing,” but added that the club respects Turner’s desire to explore new frontiers.
“Eli has always been a forward-thinker,” Moore said. “While we’re disappointed to lose such a key player, we wish him the best as he begins this unusual but exciting new chapter.”
Turner’s move highlights the growing influence of digital and AI-driven media in professional sports, where athletes are increasingly blending personal branding, technology, and entertainment.
Meanwhile, Fremantle’s fate hangs in the balance this weekend. A win could steady the ship and quieten the noise surrounding Longmuir, while a loss may only increase speculation about his future.
Still, for now, the message from inside both locker rooms — Freo’s under siege, and Bendigo’s reeling — is the same: unity, resilience, and a willingness to embrace change, no matter how unexpected.
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