Returning ruckman Nic Naitanui says he has been proud watching emerging duo Bailey Williams and Callum Jamieson’s efforts during his injury-enforced stint on the sidelines.
Out of action since the round four win over Collingwood due to a medial ligament problem, Naitanui is set to return and partner one of the young Eagles at the MCG against in-form Richmond.
A mentor to both Jamieson and Williams, Naitanui has been impressed with their development against some of the competition’s toughest ruckmen.
“Those two have come a long way. I think the majority of the experiences that the guys get at AFL level only helps their development,” Naitanui said.
“Those guys have probably missed out over the last couple of years because there has been some senior rucks around then, but I think Bailey and ‘Jamo’ have come a long way.
“They’re still learning. They’re still really young. At times we forget how young they really are.
“Some of these boys were born in the 2000s. We’re quick to judge and say things about them, but they’re still babies.
“Once they grow into their bodies and become men – especially as ruckmen – they’ll really develop and be some really powerful players for this football club.”
Naitanui dominated in his comeback WAFL game on Saturday night, despite playing limited minutes, and finished with two goals, 17 disposals and 26 hit-outs in the reserves’ first win for the season.
“It was actually fun to be out there playing WAFL on the weekend and get the boys their first win for the year,” Naitanui said.
“It’s been a long year for the whole footy club, so to have a win on the Friday night (against Essendon) and then the Saturday night.
“It was a good little stepping stone for this weekend.”
Naitanui didn’t play when West Coast slumped to a 109-point loss to Richmond last time the teams met in round seven, but admitted the heavy defeat hasn’t been forgotten.
“I think that’s in the back of the boys’ minds still. They beat us pretty convincingly here at home. It’s a whole new look team (for us) as well,” Naitanui said.
“In saying that, we know they’re going really well. They always do start playing a lot of their best footy this time of year leading into finals.
“It’s a tough challenge going over there to get a win at the ‘G. We’ve only had a couple of wins this year.
“It’s one we really need to win and set us up looking into next year as well.”
