The ball hasn’t even been bounced to start the season but there is an overwhelming sense of optimism coming from Perth after an off-season recruiting bonanza.
South Fremantle star Tom Blechynden is paying the ultimate tribute to club legend Steve Marsh - retiring the No.7 guernsey they both wore for their season opener against East Perth on Saturday.
Jason Salecic needed some magic to get a win in his first game as coach of West Perth and he got it thanks to the man known as “The Wiz” – Keegan Knott.
Given I’ll be watching this week on the sidelines, what better time to go through each team and give my take on the best players, writes Hamish Brayshaw.
A star Claremont recruit is being tipped to take the WAFL by storm this season just like his Fremantle twin brother, starting with Thursday night’s blockbuster season-opener against West Perth.
Sandover medallist Hamish Brayshaw will miss East Perth’s season-opener with concussion and says family experience means he fully supports the league’s new protocols.
Andrew Gaff kicked a goal and will likely put his name back on West Coast’s selection table in an encouraging return to the WAFL in a practice match against Subiaco.
Troubled former Richmond star Sydney Stack is on track for a shock round one debut at his new club Swan Districts after being named in their pre-season clash against East Fremantle on Saturday.
West Coast coach Adam Simpson has confirmed veteran wingman Andrew Gaff will be dropped after a career-low four disposal outing against Port Adelaide on Sunday.
Pacey Fremantle defender Brandon Walker has taken a major step towards an AFL return, impressing for Peel Thunder in a pre-season clash against East Perth.
Exciting West Coast draftee Clay Hall has taken a big stride from an ankle injury after being named as one of 10 Eagles to play in their WAFL pre-season clash against Perth on Saturday.