For Round 8 of the AFLW season, we're proud to celebrate Melissa, a passionate Eagles member whose love for the Club, commitment to family traditions and unwavering support of the AFLW program embody what it means to be All the Way West.
Proud to Be Part of the Journey
For Melissa, being a West Coast Eagles member is about more than football. It's about belonging to a community and sharing in every moment that comes with supporting the Club.
"Being part of a heritage Club that has a sense of community, it makes me feel proud and special to be a part of that journey, to be there for the heartbreaks and the euphoric highs."
Like so many loyal Eagles members, Melissa embraces every part of the supporter journey. Whether celebrating victories or sticking by the Club during challenging times, she takes pride in being part of the Eagles Family.
A Celebration of Inclusion
When asked about her favourite AFLW memory, Melissa pointed to one of the most vibrant and meaningful events in the AFLW season.
"My favourite moment would be how well the Club puts on Pride Round. I love coming to the game and seeing the inclusivity, all the activations, from the kids' glittery face painting, the music pumping, drag queens singing and then fireworks."
For Melissa, Pride Round showcases everything that's special about the AFLW competition and the Eagles community.
"Then to watch the girls run out and smash it and celebrate with them at the Boundary Club afterwards is a highlight!"
The atmosphere, inclusivity and connection between players and members have created memories that Melissa will never forget.
A 180km Family Tradition
Game day is a family affair in Melissa’s household, and getting to the footy is no small feat.
"Hopping in the car with my family, and travelling the 180km round road trip from the Wheatbelt decked in my lucky blue and gold scarf that has the member pins attached from the foundation year to now!"
The long drive has become a treasured tradition that brings the family together before every match.
"The time in the car allows us as a family to discuss all the important points of the game!"
From the Wheatbelt to the match-day atmosphere, Melissa's commitment highlights the lengths Eagles members go to in supporting the Club they love.
Leading the Charge in the Middle
Asked which current AFLW player excites her the most, Melissa found it difficult to choose just one.
"Where do I start! I think all the girls should get a mention but if I had to pick one in particular, I love how Sarah Lakay goes about it in the middle."
Melissa admires Lakay's competitiveness and influence around the contest.
"Her hit-outs are impressive and her follow-up on the ball is aggressive, which is a real advantage to the group."
It's that combination of effort, determination and team-first football that makes Lakay one of Melissa's favourite players to watch.
Melissa's Message to the Team
If Melissa could deliver one message to the players before they ran out onto the field, it would be a reminder to embrace the moment and trust themselves.
"Play as if you were a kid again aspiring to make it to the top, have fun, always look after your teammates and when times are tough back yourself in, head down and go for it."
It's a message built on belief, resilience and enjoying the journey, qualities that have become hallmarks of the AFLW program and the supporters who stand behind it.
Through her dedication, family traditions and passion for the AFLW team, Melissa exemplifies what it means to be All the Way West. Whether travelling hundreds of kilometres from the Wheatbelt, celebrating Pride Round or cheering on the Eagles alongside her family, members like Melissa help create the passionate community that makes the West Coast Eagles so special.
