The West Coast Eagles’ No. 1 draft pick Willem Duursma has been recognised as the round three Telstra AFL Rising Star nominee following a stellar performance against Port Adelaide on Sunday.

The exciting 18-year-old wingman starred in the Eagles’ thrilling two-point win at Adelaide Oval, gathering 20 disposals, six marks, four clearances and a goal in just his third game at the elite level.

Duursma becomes the second Eagle to be nominated for the Rising Star so far this season, with fellow young gun Jobe Shanahan nominated in round two.

“It feels unreal, especially now having two Eagles players nominated back-to-back,” Duursma said.

“It really goes to show the character and development we are building as a team.”

Hailing from regional Victoria, Duursma made his debut alongside fellow 2025 draftees Cooper Duff-Tytler and Josh Lindsay in round one.

Across his first three games, the ready-made youngster is averaging 16 disposals, six marks, five score involvements and a goal.

Duursma praised his experienced teammate Elliot Yeo for showing enormous belief in the young players coming through the system, and the learnings he’s picked up from him along the way.

“Elliot Yeo and his belief in me and the young boys has been huge for us,” Duursma said.

“He’s been sharing his elite footy knowledge, both on and off the field, which has been so handy and really helps with our confidence.”

Duursma is the seventh current Eagles player to be nominated for the Rising Star award since 2023, following Reuben Ginbey, Elijah Hewett, Harley Reid, Tyrell Dewar, Clay Hall and Shanahan.