The West Coast Eagles hit the track on Friday under a blazing 33-degree sun. Despite the conditions, the squad delivered a sharp, high-energy session featuring match simulation, skill drills and plenty of physical contests across the ground.

Rule refresh before match sim

Before match simulation kicked off, umpires Daniel Johanson and Martin Rodger ran the team through several new rule interpretations, ensuring clarity and clean execution once game play began.

The AFL has implemented a free-kick for last disposal out-of-bounds between the 50m arcs for the 2026 season, scrapped the centre bounce for ball-ups and tightened the ‘stand’ rule, among other changes.

Midfield contest fires up

The battle around the ball was fierce all morning, with plenty of shoulder‑to‑shoulder contests in tight.

Star mid-season pickup Tom McCarthy continued his summer surge, showcasing clean ball use, sharp decision‑making and composure under pressure. His bursts from stoppages repeatedly opened up the play.

Harley Reid was in everything between stints in attack and Clay Hall found plenty of the ball.

Fresh faces fire early

West Coast’s newest recruits were on full display throughout the session, led by No.1 draft pick Willem Duursma, who spent long stretches on the wing and showcased clever running patterns before finishing a strong passage of play with a classy long‑range goal from 50.

Cooper Duff‑Tytler brought plenty of physicality, attacking contests with aggression in attack and competing hard. Prized defensive addition Brandon Starcevich looked immediately settled, using his experience and composure to control transitions out of the back half.

Recent midfield addition from Adelaide Crows Harry Schoenberg also impressed with his hard running and ability to link up between contests.

Up forward, rookie Tylah Williams injected spark early, kicking two goals within the first 10 minutes and displaying creativity inside 50.

Defender Josh Lindsay added further impact with his powerful left foot, repeatedly launching attacking chains from half‑back with precision and penetration.

Returning group on the rise

Several recovering Eagles continued their steady progression through tailored programs.
Tom Cole, Harry Barnett and Bailey Williams all trained away from the main group as they progress towards rejoining full training loads. Each completed a mixture of running, touch work and modified drills. Elliot Yeo also continued his build in a bid to set him up for a successful season.

Jack Hutchinson also remained on the sidelines as he continues rehabilitation from ankle surgery in December, completing a block of bike work as part of his cross‑training phase.