Bulldogs denied Ugle-Hagan's request to play for Indigenous All-Stars

Jamarra Ugle-Hagan’s desperation to return to the game saw him ask the Western Bulldogs if he could play for the Indigenous All-Stars.

There was frustration and disappointment when that request was denied by the Dogs before both parties found a compromise, with the player fulfilling an off-field role in Perth last weekend.

Ugle-Hagan today returned to training after a turbulent pre-season in which he has rarely been available, joining teammates for a solid session on Whitten Oval.

But the forward’s renewed desire to return to action will be met with caution by the Dogs hierarchy.

Ugle-Hagan strung a couple of pre-season sessions together early in the program, but has scarcely trained with teammates since.

While the match fitness and touch will undoubtedly return in the weeks to come, Ugle-Hagan will also need to “do the time” among a playing group that has completed an arduous pre-season together.

The widespread support for Ugle-Hagan is countered by the belief among club decision-makers that quickly dropping him back into the Bulldogs’ best 22 won’t bode well for team harmony.

The 22-year-old stands as one of the most exciting forwards in the game, with the former No.1 draft pick kicking 43.35 last year.

His eventual return will be a big boost for a club hit hard by injury over the summer months, with Adam Treloar (calf), Liam Jones (hamstring) and Jason Johannisen (hamstring) all sidelined long-term.