[1] He grew up in Darwin, the capital of the Northern Territory, where he played rugby league at junior levels[2] before concentrating on Australian football at the age of 15.

With about five minutes to go in the first half, Whelan knocked James Hird unconscious with a strong shirtfront, re-gathered the ball and fed it off to Travis Johnstone who finished the play with a goal to bring up double figures for the Demons.

Because Brown was kicking with his left boot, Whelan landed on his right foot, and, in front of horrified Friday Night Football viewers, broke his leg.

The severe collision injured both players, resulting in both coming off the ground, with the back of Whelan's head lacerating Ball's forehead.

In August 2009, Whelan announced his retirement from the AFL alongside teammate Paul Wheatley, effective after Round 22, as part of the Melbourne Football Club's youth policy.

His career has been plagued by injury, but is leaving on a good note and was happy to play an important role mentoring the MFC's young Aboriginal players.