Experienced midfielder Tim Kelly, exciting wingman Tyrell Dewar and athletic utility Jack Hutchinson have penned multi-year deals with Waalitj Marawar.
Kelly is currently playing his sixth season in the blue and gold, with the 2023 John Worsfold medallist signing on for two more years to remain with the Club until at least the end of 2027.
“I’m absolutely stoked to be committing for another two years,” Kelly said.
“I’m always really grateful for the opportunity that the club gave me, they got me and my family home at a time when we really needed it.
“There was no intentions of looking anywhere else, and I’m just pumped that we could get this done.”
The 30-year-old South Fremantle product has accrued a number of impressive achievements over his career so far, including an All-Australian blazer and a Glendinning-Allan Medal.
“We are delighted to have Tim onboard for the next two years with the West Coast Eagles,” List Manager Matt Clarke said.
“Tim’s talent and experience will be vitally important to the regeneration of our squad under Andrew (McQualter) and keeping our 2023 Club Champion was a priority.
“He has the flexibility in his game to play through several positions in our new system and his leadership for our young core is highly valued. We feel Tim has some strong football ahead.”
High-flying Hutchinson burst onto the scene following his arrival through the 2024 Mid-season Draft and has signed on for another three years, on top of his 2026 contract, to remain at the Club until at least the end of 2029.
The Inverloch local kicked five goals in his WAFL debut just days after being drafted, and made his AFL debut the following week.
“I’m super pumped, coming over less than a year ago and to now re-sign is amazing. It was my goal to be able to re-sign,” Hutchinson said.
“I’ve been loving my time over here and I think we’re moving the right way so I’m super keen to be involved in the next few years with the Club.
“I love it over in Perth, it suits me well, a few waves, nice weather so it’s a suitable environment for me, plus all the boys at the club, I’m really enjoying it.
“The move over was so seamless, all the support I had from coaches and other staff around the club, and all the boys were so welcoming, I’ve made some really good mates over here.”
Hutchinson has impressed on the big stage with his elite athleticism, strong marking ability and drive through the midfield.
“Ever since Jack arrived here after the Mid-season Draft in 2024, he has dedicated himself to improving in all areas of his game,” Clarke said.
“His approach to craft, his body and his passion for the Club was obvious in a very short time.
“He has the attributes to play multiple roles on the field while having a presence that makes others want to get better, and we are excited to have Jack locked in as an important member of our future.”
Naitanui Academy graduate Dewar has signed a three-year contract extension and the 21-year-old will remain with Waalitj Marawar until at least the end of 2028.
“I feel so grateful, it’s a big thing for me and my family,” Dewar said.
“The Club put so much trust in me in my first year, I got picked up as a Category B Rookie and they’ve just believed in my since I first got drafted, and I’m forever grateful for the opportunity they’ve given me.
“I love coming to work every day, everyone has a big smile on their face, we all have a laugh and a bit of banter, and we all get along really well. I love the boys.”
Dewar made an electric AFL entrance in round nine last season, booting a long-range goal on debut, and has developed his game to play a range of positions.
“It’s exciting to have Tyrell commit his future to the Club as he has put in a lot of work behind the scenes on his game,” Clarke said.
“His exciting traits are evident for all to see, and we believe that he possesses traits that will flourish under Andrew.
“His versatility is a very important part of what Andrew is looking for in our squad and we look forward to his progression.
“It is a credit to Tyrell’s hard work and also our Next Generation Academy staff to achieve this.”