Williams’ fourth season on the list saw the Dandenong product emerge as West Coast’s frontline ruckman in star Nic Naitanui’s absence and slot into the forward-ruck role when the dual Club Champion was on the field.
The 22-year-old played 17 games – taking his career tally to 26 – as one of the emerging Eagles who had opportunity thrust upon them in a tough 2022 campaign.
Williams’ start to the year was impacted by Health and Safety Protocols and then a hamstring strain, costing him four games and continuity, but he strung together 12 appearances in a row between rounds nine and 21.
He was omitted for the round 22 RAC Derby but returned in the final round and produced his best performance for the year against eventual premier Geelong at the Cattery, before re-signing for two more years last month.
Standout performance: Finishing off strong
The Eagles ventured to GMHBA Stadium in a game coach Adam Simpson said would ‘put hairs on their chests’ and Williams was one of the youngsters who enhanced his reputation on another tough day.
In the best game of his short career so far, the athletic big man tallied a personal best 25 disposals – the first time he had more than 18 touches in a game – with 17 contested possessions, five clearances and two contested marks.
It was an encouraging effort in the circumstances and something to build on ahead of an important 2023 campaign.
Season averages
Disposals – 9.2
Hitouts – 16.5
Clearances – 2.6
Marks – 1.8
Goals – 0.4
