Ginbey cemented his status as one of West Coast’s most important defenders in 2026, building on his impressive transition into the backline with a breakout campaign as a lockdown key defender. His strength, athleticism and versatility allowed him to take on some of the competition’s most dangerous forwards before a quad injury brought his season to a premature end in round 13. Despite the interrupted campaign, his impact was recognised with West Coast’s Best Defensive Player award for a second consecutive year, while he also received the Chris Mainwaring Medal as Best Clubman. Ginbey also committed his long-term future to the Eagles, signing a three-year contract extension through to the end of 2030. At a Glance: Junior club: Dunsborough (WA). Debut: Round 1, 2023. Recruited from: East Perth/Wesley College (WA). Brownlow votes: 2.
