For Round 17, we’re proud to celebrate Tessa, a passionate young Eagle whose love for the game and deep family connection to the club make her support truly special.
Born into blue and gold
For Tessa, being a West Coast Eagles member is about more than just game day — it’s part of who she is.
“I am a loyal, fun, passionate and proud member,” she says.
A love of footy runs in the family. Her dad played alongside club legends Michael Brennan and Chris Mainwaring, while her mum has been a member for more than 25 years — signing Tessa up from the very beginning.
“I love footy, love playing footy and the excitement of being at the game and watching the Eagles,” she says. “I love going to watch the team and soaking up the atmosphere.”
A grand final to remember
Like so many Eagles fans, one moment stands above the rest.
“It would have to be the 2018 Grand Final,” Tessa says.
Watching from home with her mum, dad and Nonna, the emotions were unforgettable.
“We were crying, whooping and jumping around,” she recalls. “We had decorated our whole house in blue and yellow, hung up our guernseys and mum even had yellow flowers everywhere.”
As the game turned, so did Tessa’s outfit choice — a change she’s convinced helped spark the comeback.
“During the game I changed from my Eagles dress into my Eagles guernsey and we started to win!” she says.
And then came the moment every Eagles fan will never forget.
“Seeing Dom Sheed kick that winning goal — it was surreal. It was so good seeing our team being so strong and winning on that last day in September.”
Game day, the Tessa way
Tessa’s match-day routine is steeped in tradition and full of meaning.
“Every home game I wear the 2006 Grand Final jersey with number 9 on the back,” she says.
There’s also a special family touch she carries with her.
“I wear my Nonna’s scarf that has loads of player badges and pins from over the years, and I always add blue and gold ribbons in my hair.”
The build-up starts before arriving at the ground.
“On the way to the train station, we play Eagle Rock to get us excited,” she says.
And once they’re in their seats, it’s time for a family photo — a ritual her mum never misses.
Reid fever
When it comes to the current team, one player stands above the rest for Tessa.
“I love Harley Reid,” she says. “He is very strong and versatile, exciting to watch — and I love how he gives it to the opposition.”
Her admiration is backed up by the time she got to meet the superstar, and he signed her treasured 2006 number 9 guernsey.
“He said it was nice to meet us and everything — it was amazing.”
A message to the team
Tessa’s message to the players is full of belief and energy:
“We believe in you!! Be strong, play hard, have fun and know your fans back you 110%.”
Through All the Way West, members like Tessa remind us that the Eagles are more than a team — they’re part of the family. From lifelong traditions to once-in-a-lifetime moments, it’s that passion and connection that continues to drive the blue and gold forward.
Member of the Round nominations for the 2026 AFL season have now closed. Keep an eye out for AFLW Member of the Round coming soon!
