As part of All the Way West, the club continues to recognise a Member of the Round at every West Coast Eagles home and away match in 2026, celebrating the people who carry the spirit of the club no matter where life takes them.
For Round 7, we proudly spotlight James, a lifelong Eagles supporter whose loyalty has followed the blue and gold across state lines and into the next generation.
Where it all began
For James, being a West Coast Eagles member is not just a habit. It is part of who he is.
“Being a West Coast Eagles member is a huge part of my identity,” he says.
James has followed the Eagles since the club’s inception, backing that passion with official membership for the past 21 years. Even when life took him from Western Australia to Victoria, his connection to the club never wavered.
“Staying connected to the club was never in question,” James says. “I transferred to an interstate membership and kept showing up in blue and gold.”
For James, being a member represents loyalty and pride. It is also something he now proudly shares with his son.
“It’s something I now share with my son, who’s grown up just as passionate about the Eagles as I am.”
A moment etched in time
Ask James to relive one moment in Eagles history and his answer comes instantly.
The 2018 Grand Final.
“I was at the MCG with my Dad, standing in section M15 along the wing where that famous passage of play unfolded,” he recalls.
From Jeremy McGovern’s intercept, to Nathan Vardy’s contest, Liam Ryan’s mark and Dom Sheed lining up from the pocket, James had the perfect angle to witness one of the most iconic sequences in modern AFL history.
“It was one of those moments where the whole crowd seemed to hold its breath,” he says. “Seeing that chain of play live from that spot is something I’ll never forget. I could watch it on repeat forever.”
Game day, together
These days, game day is about more than just football. It is about family.
“Game day starts with getting into my colours and locking in good thoughts,” James says.
When the Eagles play in Melbourne, James and his son head to the footy together, continuing a tradition that has grown stronger with every season.
“We’ve shared some incredible experiences through the club,” he says, including being part of the banner making team and seeing his son run out as an AFLW mascot.
“Supporting West Coast has become a father and son ritual, and it’s one of the things I look forward to most each season.”
Eyes on the future
Among the current playing group, James is excited by what lies ahead.
“Harley Reid and Willem Duursma,” he says.
“Their talent is undeniable, but what really stands out is their mindset. They play with hunger, confidence and the kind of drive that can pull a club forward.”
To James, they represent more than individual brilliance.
“They’re the foundations of the next era of Eagles football and the type of players you build a new chapter around.”
A message to the team
If James could address the playing group before they run out, his message would be simple and heartfelt.
“Back your strengths, back each other and bring the intensity that defines this club,” he says.
“Trust the work you’ve put in and play with the spirit that’s always set West Coast apart. Every moment is an opportunity. Go out there and make it count.”
Through All the Way West, stories like James’ remind us that being a West Coast Eagles member is not defined by location. It is defined by loyalty, shared moments and a connection that spans generations, wherever the blue and gold is worn.
Nominate yourself or another member to be a Member of the Round in 2026.
