By the way, Gather Round should stay in SA and WA should continue having a slice of Origin for as long as possible (sell gets murky with Vic v SA etc but that’s never stopped them before).

In today’s newsletter: Johnson lifts again, a Brownlow leader, realistic Eagles results, a ruck solution, the Royal recruits, a young Docker and Eagle impress in pathway, Henry does it again and a 16-year-old Shark goes nuts.

Alright, let’s get stuck in.

Jumper Punches is proudly supported by Lightning Minds. Whether you’re ditching the drink entirely or taking a breather mid-session, their non-alcoholic craft beer is here to help you strike a healthy balance.

FREMANTLE

Fremantle 7.3 (45) def Collingwood 5.9 (39)

• Was it a good game of football? God no. But the fact the Dockers were able to scrap a win from behind with all the momentum going the other way was impressive. The fact they did it two weeks in a row was even more so.

• Almost every time Luke Jackson rucks solo, he makes the argument for two rucks a little harder to swallow. Jackson was the most damaging player out there after Sean Darcy went down with a head knock. They might bring in Mason Cox for the derby anyway, the other option would be let Jackson go one out and bring in Jeremy Sharp, who has been in very good form as an inside mid at Peel (he had 25 disposals and kicked three against Claremont at the weekend.

• We threw his name up last week, and Matthew Johnson lifted another gear. The burst through the middle to lace out Jye Amiss. The burst through a tackle to settle and kick the winning goal. He’s improving out of sight.

• Is Caleb Serong leading the Brownlow at this point of the season? Polls very well.

WEST COAST

Geelong 17.20 (122) def West Coast 11.10 (76)

• The jumpers looked sick.

• This is one of the results Eagles fans would have been happy with if not for getting those wins on the board early. They were competitive against a good side and a heap of their kids played well.

• That’s the first time I can remember Andrew McQualter publicly ripping Harley Reid for discipline issues. Harley’s best this season has been brilliant. He’s still so young, you have to wonder at what point he’s able to shelve that side of his game completely.

• We’ve got to see it one more week considering who he was rucking against, but Bailey Williams should be the Eagles’ ruckman going forward. The new rules play in his favour, he offers more going forward, and he’s got a certain amount of mongrel about him. Had 20 disposals and seven clearances.

WAFL

• Darcy Craven (ex-Brisbane) and Cooper Stephens (ex-Hawthorn & Geelong) are already proving to be excellent additions at East Perth. Craven has six goals in the first two weeks and Stephens has been a high-level inside mid. When Hamish Brayshaw returns from injury they’ll be fully up and running.

• East Fremantle snatched a last-gasp win over Subiaco thanks to a late goal from Liam Robinson, but Jack Cleaver was one of the stories of the day. The Sharks midfielder is still young and he’s played some good games so far - but this might have been his best. Kicked two goals from 26 touches in the middle and burst through stoppages all day.

• West Coast won! They beat West Perth by 15 points! The Falcons kicked 12.20, but still! Malakai Champion made a case that he shouldn’t have been dropped in the first place with two goals and seven inside-50s.

• Fremantle draftee Ryda Luke kicked 5.4 in the WAFL ressies against Claremont - this fella has so much raw potential.

• South Fremantle got two of their prime onballers back in Matthew Parker and Tom Blechynden and flexed on Perth as a result in a 46-point win.

WAFLW

• Third best-on-ground in as many weeks for Jaime Henry. This time it was 31 disposals, eight tackles and a goal in a win over East Fremantle.

• South Fremantle and Perth played out the first draw of the season - 55 a piece. Isabella Shannon has started the season like a house on fire for the Demons, while Natasha Entwistle was strong for the Dogs.

• Paige Sheppard has come back even better this year, she’s almost tipped over 100 disposals in the first three games for Subiaco and was best on in the weekend’s win over East Perth. Subi young gun Marley Kelman also featured in the best for the first time.

• Claremont recruit Ruby Sargent-Wilson had a steady start after joining from the Sydney Swans in the off-season. She exploded against Peel Thunder at the weekend as the Tigers notched a 70-point win. First shots fired by the reigning premiers, who have found another gun.

WAFL COLTS

• Reid Foot came into the East Fremantle colts side as a 16-year-old last year and held his spot through finals. He was there again in round one this season and had a massive game in a win over Subiaco this weekend - kicking four goals from 15 touches. Keep an eye on this one.

• In that same game there was another breakout from a 16yo in Oscar Richardson. He kicked two goals from 26 touches and 11 marks in his second colts game. Wowee.

• West Coast father-son prospect Harper Banfield was good for Claremont. He’s similar to his brother Charlie in terms of hunger and endeavour, just not as tall. Two good games to start the year.

• Key defender Mitchell Stirling was massive for Peel. He had 25 touches and six marks. Will be a pillar of WA’s U18 side this year.

AFLW U16 CHAMPS

• WA came close to a comeback win in their opening game against SA last week, but they were cut short by the siren.

• Bella Nelson, fresh off a hat-trick of U15 All-Australians, had it a team-high 23 times with nine marks and 10 rebound 50s.

• Subiaco’s Caitlin Boss was another standout with 22 disposals and four clearances.

• Their second and final game is this Thursday in Melbourne.

  ---

That’s us all caught up.

Jumper Punches is produced by Playbookx. We’re a sports marketing company that unites brands, sports and community. If you’re a brand looking to grow your business, or a sport looking for help with commercial strategy, content or marketing, let’s have a chat.

Catch you next week.

Packed edition today now that the AFL, the Sullivan Logistics WAFL, ATCO WAFLW and EGT Colts are all up and running consecutively.

One of the most noteworthy performances was the senior debut of Lucas Robinson at South Fremantle. He’s a big bustling inside mid from Lake Grace (heard that before?) who can be drafted this November and is linked to Fremantle through their NGA.

And if you haven’t had enough footy, the National U16 Girls Championships kick off today, with WA playing in the opener. You can watch it here from 10.15am WA time.

Bella Nelson, Vienna Matera (niece of Peter, Wally and Phil), Bea Crane and Indi Slocombe are a few of the names I’m looking out for.

In today’s newsletter: The rising tides lifting Freo, finding some light in a very dark game at the Eagles, NGA prospects popping off all over the place, Subi are back, Henry keeps rolling and the West Perth colt who’s already won me over.

Before we get stuck in, hit this button and let me know what impressed you the most across the weekend…

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OK, now let’s get stuck in.

Jumper Punches is proudly supported by Lightning Minds. Whether you’re ditching the drink entirely or taking a breather mid-session, their non-alcoholic craft beer is here to help you strike a healthy balance.

FREMANTLE

Fremantle 11.12 (78) def Adelaide 11.10 (76)

• This is one of those moments contenders have. All the momentum against you on the road, easy to lay down and take the L. Somehow you find a way. A special win.

• Jye Amiss made his critics take a seat. In a game where Josh Treacy’s scoreboard impact was being limited, Amiss made the most of his chances and showed some quality body work on his way to four goals. I know one critic who for some reason backed him to kick five, so it was an even sweeter total. He stretches the field for the Dockers and does a power of work to create space, so it was great to see Amiss get a lick of the ice cream in an important game.

• He’s had plenty of good ones but put this in the handful of Murphy Reid’s best games. Went up the ground and had so many moments of class. Every time he gets it, you expect him to put someone in space.

• The rise of Matthew Johnson and Neil Erasmus to consistent, capable best 23 players is part of what makes this year’s Fremantle side feel more legit. They still make the odd error, but you don’t notice them like you once did - which is a good thing.

WEST COAST

Sydney 24.19 (163) def West Coast 4.11 (35)

• We try to stay positive around here, OK? Some weeks it’s harder than others.

• Bo Allan has shown moments of brilliance over the past three weeks. It took him time to find his feet at the level, but you’re starting to get a glimpse of what he could be. He’s big, quick and makes things happen.

• I don’t care how many touches Jagga Smith has, Willem Duursma has to be the Rising Star favourite at this point. He’s so influential and damaging. Will be fascinating to see if he puts on size and goes inside, or stays a Slim Reaper on the wing. Either way, he’s going to be one hell of a footballer.

WAFL

• As mentioned, Lucas Robinson was one of the biggest talking points from round one of the Sullivan Logistics WAFL and rightly so. The Fremantle NGA draft prospect made his senior debut for South Fremantle and had 27 touches - a game-high 14 contested amongst them - and nine clearances. He needs to add tricks outside the contest still - recruiters are still all-in on speed and power - but on the inside he stands alone in this draft class.

• Subiaco will contend for finals at the very least this season, and their nail-biting seven-point win against East Perth on the weekend suggests they could compete for the flag. Stefan Giro was a highlight with 26 disposals and 3.2, but they had winners on every line.

• Huge start for Claremont, demolishing West Perth on the back of a dominant midfield. Bailey Rogers looks back to his best with 27 and three goals, and he told The West he had finally got on the end of an Achilles issue which has been lingering for years.

• Aaron Clarke has been heavily tipped for the Bernie Naylor Medal this year and opened his account with seven goals against West Coast, who were disappointing again. Hopefully they show more fight as the season goes on.

• Tyrell Dewer was one Eagle who stood out and could push for selection in the AFL side soon.

• Mason Cox and Jeremy Sharp were dominant for Peel in their win over East Fremantle. Sharp’s on-ball roll in the WAFL may limit his chances of selection at AFL level but it could put him in Sandover Medal frame if he keeps going like he started.

WAFLW

• Jaime Henry take a bow. She followed last week’s monster game with another 38 touches in a massive win over South Freo. She’s started the season averaging 35 disposals and eight tackles. All eyes on the AFLW pre-season draft on May 4.

• Juliet Kelly is another name that should be in the AFLW mix. She had 36 and 10 tackles as Claremont narrowly beat West Perth and was stiff to be overlooked at last year’s draft. Ella Gilbey also had some very nice moments in the 66-64 win for the Tigers, her ground level work and hands set up the winning goal.

• The Falcons had plenty of standouts, with Elee McEvoy at the top of that list. The Irish recruit picked up 19 touches, two goals and seven tackles in her second proper game of Aussie Rules.

• Noa McNaughton has always had talent, but she had the best game of her career against Peel at the weekend. The East Fremantle teenager ran out the game with 29 touches, two goals and eight inside-50s. We knew the level was there, good to see her hit it.

• Subi’s three-headed midfield monster - Krstel Petrevski, Lisa Steane and Paige Sheppard - were at it again. The three tallied 95 touches between them in a win over Perth.

• Mia Carlshausen, one of this year’s leading draft chances, was best on for Perth with a composed 17 disposal, six-mark game.

WAFL COLTS

• Plenty of good games across the comp, but the one player that stood out for me was West Perth’s Campbell Creyk. Had heard a bit about him but jeez, he passed the eye test. A quick, dynamic mid/fwd who competes hard and has some tricks in front of goal. Was in the WA U18 summer squad as a bottom ager and looks set for a big year. I’m all in after watching him once.

• Speaking of standouts from that game I thought Benji van Rooyen really lifted for the Tigers in the final term. The young ruck already held down the spot for WA last year as a bottom-ager and looks to have lifted a gear in his draft year. George Gale was another Tiger to start with a bang. He had a very well-rounded game in the middle with 32 touches, nine marks and four tackles.

• Leo Steed did Leo Steed things at Swans - 31 disposals, eight tackles and a goal.

• We spoke about Lucas Robinson, but another Freo NGA player had an unreal game at colts level. I knew Finlay Yeo had tricks - he took hangs and kicked some special goals last year - but there’s more to his game than I thought. He had 24 disposals, 11 inside-50s and six tackles for East Freo. Enormous.

• West Coast NGA prospect Garrison Kehn started well at East Perth. Composed off half-back and set up plenty with a team-high 25 touches. He’ll have a good year this year.

• Adding Lachlan McGlade to the watchlist at the Royals. Had some very nice moments amongst 20 disposals and a goal.

That’s us all caught up.

Jumper Punches is produced by Playbookx. We’re a sports marketing company that unites brands, sports and community. If you’re a brand looking to grow your business, or a sport looking for help with commercial strategy, content or marketing, let’s have a chat.

Catch you next week.

Tomorrow the Sullivan Logistics WAFL kicks off for season 2026. It’s a Good Friday.

I know this gets said a lot but this is genuinely one of the most anticipated seasons in a long time. Every team has recruited well, jostling for finals positions will be red-hot, and it looks like the rain will hold off, at least for now (touch wood).

This post is for paid-up Jumper Punches members. If you haven’t already, consider upgrading your subscription. The Monday wrap will always be free, but paid subscribers get access to extra features, monthly giveaways and more.

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But if that’s a step too far for now and you’re looking for more WAFL content, the podcast I host for the league - Seven Point Play - kicked off earlier this week. It’s up on Youtube or wherever you listen to podcasts.

Today’s feature is on the players I’m most interested in seeing this season.

Some are in the AFL draft frame, some are making a comeback after injury or a long career break, and some are ready to pop and make a bigger impact on the comp.

Alright, let’s get stuck in.

Read more

Until Melbourne came from behind to beat the Blues yesterday, the two WA sides occupied 25% of the top eight. Who would have predicted that?

Yes, the ladder is all over the shop. And yes, the eight is actually a 10 this year. But it’s still pretty good OK, stop trying to suck the joy out of it!

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In today’s newsletter: Treacy has sticky mitts, somebody should have picked Jobe earlier, showtime Shai, and Henry’s Swans make a statement in the ATCO WAFLW.

Let’s get stuck in.

Jumper Punches is proudly supported by our launch partner Lightning Minds. Whether you’re ditching the drink entirely or taking a breather mid-session, their non-alcoholic craft beer is here to help you strike a healthy balance.

FREMANTLE

Fremantle 13.35 (103) def Richmond 6.7 (43)

• The best hands since Wayne Carey. That’s what David King had to say about Josh Treacy after he took 12 marks in a best-on-ground performance against the Tigers. Watch it back and, in this game at least, it’s hard to argue.

• Shai Bolton may be Fremantle’s best midfielder this season. That’s two games in a row where he’s been at the centre bounces more than any player other than Caleb Serong - and two games where he’s been a game-changer. If the form holds on the road against a far better side in Adelaide this Friday, then look out.

• If Luke Jackson had kicked straight that could have been one of the most prolific ruck games since Max Gawn’s insane prelim final in 2021. Jackson finished with 1.4 from 17 disposals, five clearances and 28 hit-outs. Imagine if that were five straight.

• Great signs from Jye Amiss as well. Created more than he kicked.

WEST COAST

West Coast 13.14 (92) def Port Adelaide 13.12 (90)

• Everybody saw this coming, right? No?

• This is a genuinely remarkable start to the season for the Eagles, better than any could have predicted. Tougher challenges will come - I am very worried about Port Adelaide - but the way they’ve been able to fight back from an early deficit, reclaim the lead, then fight it out right until the final siren makes this the most encouraging fortnight the club has had in almost five years.

• Please never drop Josh Lindsay again. He did plenty against the Power, but there was a kick he pulled off in the third under pressure, hitting up Harry Schoenberg in the corridor, that I don’t think anyone else on the list could have done. Particularly given the other options at half-back, let’s hope his magnet stays firmly on the whiteboard.

• There needs to be some kind of investigation into how Jobe Shanahan dropped to pick 30 in the 2024 draft. This kid has something intangible that separates the good AFL players from the great. His mark in the dying minutes in defence was all class. Last year he showed signs as a forward, this year he’s become a swingman and it’s working to great effect.

WAFLW

East Perth 4.7 (31) def Peel Thunder 4.5 (29)

West Perth 4.6 (30) def Subiaco 2.7 (19)

Swan Districts 7.9 (51) def Claremont 1.4 (10)

South Fremantle 7.11 (53) def East Fremantle 0.4 (4)

• Upsets aplenty in the first round of the ATCO WAFLW for season 2026, and you get the feeling that this is a year where a suite of new contenders will announce themselves.

• No bigger upset than Swan Districts belting a Claremont side that has won three of the past four flags. Jaime Henry led the charge. We’d heard good things about her from Basso this pre-season but her 31 touches, 10 tackles, eight inside-50s and a goal is an early contender for performance of the season.

• We expected West Perth to pop last year - maybe we were just a bit early. The Falcons beat last year’s form team Subiaco largely on the back of their youth. The likes of Jess Roper (almost a veteran at 21 years old), Rikisha Nannup and Bella Nelson were strong in the victory.

• Huge numbers in the middle thanks to Subiaco’s big three Lisa Steane (30 disposals) Krstel Petrevski (27) and Paige Sheppard (28) but it didn’t translate to scores.

• South Fremantle will be a real contender this season. Ash Gomes was the story in their massive win over the Sharks - who looked like they could really use an Ash Gomes type midfielder out there themselves. Anyone know where they can find one?

• East Perth have already equalled last year’s win tally. Another club that will be a great watch in a comp that is getting better across the board.

WAFL PRE-SEASON

The Sullivan Logistics WAFL kicks off on Good Friday. Only one scratch match this weekend, Peel Thunder v West Coast:

• Jeremy Sharp looks like he’ll be spending more time as an inside mid, with Neil Erasmus and Matt Johnson now looking more entrenched in the Fremantle 23. Perth sung Sharp’s praises after their game last week - could be set for a massive year.

• Bailey Williams was good again in the ruck for West Coast against Mason Cox. He and Elijah Hewett - on the comeback from injury - were among the best for the Eagles, who will be better than they have been.

  ---

That’s us all caught up.

Jumper Punches is produced by Playbookx. We’re a sports marketing company that works to unite brands, sports and community. If you’re a brand looking to grow your business, or a sport looking for help with commercial strategy, content or marketing, let’s have a chat.

Catch you next week.

Quick Friday afternoon drop for you here ahead of the ATCO WAFLW kick-off this weekend. Look, the weather isn’t ideal… but get out to a game if you can.

In case you missed it earlier in the week, ATCO have come on board this season as the competition’s first-ever naming right sponsor. We’re particularly pumped for this one given the business behind this newsletter - Playbookx - helped broker the deal.

If you’ve got a business that is interested in sport partnerships, reach out for a chat, we’re happy to help point you in the right direction.

Right, onto the footy.

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We’ve recently had South Fremantle Rogers Cup player and SEDA Student Macey McDougall helping us out in the office, so we enlisted her to survey the coaches and footy managers to help pull together this list.

And a quick note if you’re looking to watch the games from home this weekend - they’re all going to live on the WAFL YouTube page going forward.

Let’s get stuck in.

CLAREMONT

Jess Freame

A strong, powerful runner through half-back and midfield with an excellent kick. She hits her targets and makes good decisions. Cemented her spot in the senior team last season an will continue to grow as a player.

Ella Gilbey

Known for her high-end speed, she was top five in the country for her 20m sprint, making her one of the standouts in Claremont’s 2025 season. Ella was invited to the State draft combine, where she recorded a record 60cm vertical jump, the best of any player across the country.

EAST FREMANTLE

Avuya Nomlatyu

A state player for WA U18s and a standout player in the Fremantle NGA Women’s team. Avuya has graduated from the Rogers Cup and will make her league debut for East Fremantle this weekend, using her height and pressure through the ruck and forward line.

Mackenzie Webb

A Claremont premiership player who will bring plenty to the Sharks. Webb plays in defence but can impact up the ground. Her ability to lock down her opponents is five-star, along with her closing speed and footy smarts.

PEEL THUNDER

Kate Bartlett

The dangerous goal-kicker is back after a stint in the Peel Football Netball League. Has plenty of experience, including in the AFLW, and is a two-time leading goal kicker for the Thunder and an overall gun in their forward line.

Ebony Bilcich

A highly accomplished Thunder legend who has played in multiple premierships and claimed the 2024 Fenton Medal as fairest & best. A leader through the midfield, she’ll be a big part of the club’s attempt to return to the pointy end of the ladder.

SUBIACO

Krstel Petrevski

The league’s standout player last season, known for her elite consistency and impact around the contest. The reigning Dhara Kerr medallist has also been recognised as Subiaco’s best and fairest in both 2024 and 2025, highlighting her dominance. Krstel racks up huge disposal numbers each game, combining her strong tackling pressure with her exceptional work rate, making her one of the competition’s most influential and reliable players.

Marley Kelman

Made her debut last season commuting from Kalgoorlie, where she led Railways to a GFL flag as best on ground in the decider, after being named the competition’s B&F the previous year as a 15-year-old. Has moved to Perth and made in impression in the WA U18 summer program.

EAST PERTH

Stella Bardon

Has the potential to make a league debut this year as a 16-year-old. Has great tackling pressure, with great work around contests and stoppages. Bardon is still developing as inside mid and is proving this position is made for her. She shows good natural footy instincts and can rotate into any role. She plays with composure, gets to good positions, and plays team-first footy. Plays above her age.

Sabella Banks

A tough and defensive-minded player who plays half-back and inside mid. Stella is a regular among East Perth’s best players by doing the “dirty, and unrewarded work” in games. Her defensive impact makes her one to watch, having made the State team last year.

PERTH

Caitlyn Edwards

Caitlyn’s journey in sport varies from playing in the AFLW for Collingwood to taking on rugby professionally in America for the Lindenwood Lions. After six years, Caitlyn has returned to footy and will have a major season this year, with her improved intensity, tackling, and high-pressure skills.

Sienna Timmermans

This is Sienna Timmermans’ second year of footy and second year in the WAFLW. She went straight to the AFLW draft contention after transitioning from elite netball. She catches the eye due to her high performance in time trials and unmatched endurance.

SWAN DISTRICTS

Jamie Henry

A dominant midfielder, known for her elite ball-winning ability and consistency around the contest. Averaging around 24 disposals per game, she is a key driver through the midfield, helping generate forward momentum for her team. Winner of the McSherry Medal as Swan Districts’ best and fairest, Jamie combines strong inside work with leadership and composure, making her one of the most influential players in the competition.

Summer Ajduk

The latest member of the Armstrong football family - niece of West Coast premiership player Steven and great-granddaughter of WA Hall of Famer Ken Armstrong - Ajduk was huge for the Black Ducks last season and should get more looks at the midfield this time around. A strong draft contender.

SOUTH FREMANTLE

Mikayla Hyde

Joins the Bulldogs with 40 games of AFLW experience under her belt. Back in the WAFLW for the first time since 2021 and primed to make an impact. The Bulldogs have loaded up and are looking to add a WAFLW flag to last year’s WAFL one.

Ash Gomes

Story has been well told by this point. East Fremantle legend, now playing for Souths. Go and read everything Eliza Reilly has written about it at CODE Sports.

WEST PERTH

Cara Dziegielewski

WA’s leading draft contender after dominating the ruck for the U18s as a bottom-ager. Can hold down the ruck at senior level and will get plenty of looks forward as well after kicking a couple of goals in her pre-season appearance for the Falcons.

Bella Nelson

Will make her league debut in round one after very strong Rogers Cup form. Played State U15s the past three seasons and was All-Australian in every one of them - and player of the tournament last year (while playing WA U16s as well).

It’s been a while since we had two wins from the WA sides in the same venue on the same weekend (we assume, this stat has not been researched…) so let’s just sit with it and enjoy it for a bit.

The AFL is in full swing, the WAFLW is back this weekend and the WAFL kicks off a week later on Good Friday. Let’s bloody go.

In today’s newsletter: The hidden gem in West Coast’s win, a veteran produces, Freo find their midfield spark, the front-half game changers, Claremont’s multi-headed monster, and a draft prospect gets a senior look.

Let’s get stuck in.

WEST COAST

West Coast 17.9 (111) def North Melbourne 15.4 (94)

• What a way to bring up your first win in 10 months. The Eagles couldn’t hit a target in the first quarter and leaked goals as a result, but once they tidied that up they were humming. There’s a heap of heart in this team.

• After the past few years you would be forgiven for watching Elliot Yeo with your hands over your face but his efforts were enormous. He had 19 touches and a couple of goals acting as a 1-2 punch with Harley Reid. If he can maintain the level it’s an extra 5% that West Coast missed last year.

• Rebuilds are a numbers game. The more young talent you can get, the better. How much better was this team to watch with the likes of Willem Duursma and Cooper Duff-Tytler out there? (Dropping Josh Lindsay was certainly a choice…)

• That was Jack Graham’s best game for the club. He had it 23 times, laid seven tackles and had four clearances. Every time he hit the contest or the loose ball, he hit it with purpose. I thought he was outstanding.

FREMANTLE

Fremantle 17.16 (118) def Melbourne 10.10 (70)

• Borrowing a stat from First Crack here, but Freo are +26 in contested possessions inside 50 over the first two games which is crazy.

• Shai Bolton should probably spend more time in the midfield. He went from nine centre bounce attendances in round one to 22 against Melbourne. Only Caleb Serong attended more for the Dockers. The result? His best game for the club, easily. He still got two goals, but his impact at stoppages was unmatched. Best on ground and hopefully he stays there.

• Fair to say Chris Scerri exceeded expectations on debut. He’s had good moments throughout the pre-season, but his pace and dare and willingness to back it in during his first AFL game was impressive. That makes it two good SSP selections in two years, given how hot Isaiah Dudley has been in the first two games. Six goals from two games after being outside the best team all pre-season. The Dockers are amassing some real weapons forward of centre.

• I know they’re trying to be quicker out of the backline but Luke Ryan showed on Saturday that he still needs to be in the 23. Especially while Brennan Cox is injured. Ryan was an All-Australian playing as a tall(ish) defender and was among the best against the Dees in a similar role.

WAFL PRE-SEASON

• Bailey Williams seems like a perfect ruckman for the new rules, and he could be back in West Coast’s AFL side soon after a big performance in the WAFL pre-season. Split his time between ruck and forward and kicked 2.3.

• Claremont’s forward line is looking scary good. Another three goals each to Jaiden Hunter and Kieran Gowdie in their game against Peel at the weekend. That’s 10 goals in three games for Hunter and nine for Gowdie. Sam van Rooyen also has six in three games and looks ready to make the step up to league.

• Fremantle NGA prospect Lucas Robinson had a run with the South Fremantle seniors and held his own. Would love to see him get an early debut, we’ve more than seen what he can do at colts level and need to see how it translates against bigger bodies.

• Subiaco look like they’ll be back in finals contention under Jarrad Schofield. They’re unbeaten in pre-season and look very solid across all lines. Oobie Doobie.

• Jordan McArdle’s done a terrific wrap here if you want more detail.

WAFLW PRE-SEASON

• The WAFLW kicks off this Saturday across Perth. Take a look at the fixture here and get to a game if you can. We’ll have more preview coverage of the league later this week.

• Only one pre-season game this weekend, with Perth dominating against Peel. Poppy Stockwell, who impressed during a stint at Freo last season, kicked four for the Demons, who are absolutely stacked with new talent.

That’s us all caught up.

Jumper Punches is produced by Playbookx. We’re a sports marketing company that works to unite brands, sports and community. If you’re a brand looking to grow your business, or a sport looking for help with commercial strategy, content or marketing, let’s have a chat.

Catch you next week.

I was watching the Freo game on a drive out to Merredin on Saturday afternoon, dropping in and out of reception. I don’t know if that was a blessing or a curse?

Two first-up losses for the WA sides. The Dockers will be scratching their heads. The Eagles will be looking for small wins.

Either way, try not to let it get to you.

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In today’s newsletter: We told you about Milan, one Eagle I expected more from, the star Dockers who went missing, one surprisingly good performance, the names of note from the weekend’s WAFL scratch matches and a Kalgoorlie kid who impressed for the WA U18s.

Quickly before we begin, thoughts go out to the family and friends of WA footy great Bill Dempsey. An icon of the sport.

Alright, let’s get stuck in.

WEST COAST

Gold Coast 20.11 (131) def West Coast 10.12 (72)

• What were we expecting really? If you take a step back, this was probably better than many predicted after watching Gold Coast last week. The Eagles were overrun early, but rallied to show some fight in the second half. A couple of young guys had some good moments. Box kinda ticked.

• I told you Milan Murdock was going to have an impact. The WAFL’s best player didn’t disappoint in his first AFL game. His first moment of impact was a run-down tackle on Mac Andrew that resulted in a goal. That was just the start. He was genuinely as good at AFL level as he is in the WAFL, and that’s a rare quality. Finished with 22 touches, two goals, four clearances and five tackles. Won’t get dropped now.

• I know he was up against a very good midfield, and his side was under the pump… but did anyone else expect a bit more from Harley Reid?

FREMANTLE

Geelong 16.14 (110) def Fremantle 14.16 (100)

• If somebody can figure out what happened at the half-time break please let me know. The focus from Justin Longmuir’s press conference has been on his stand against inequality relating to Opening Round. But in reality he also put the onus on his team for not defending the Cats well enough once they got going, and making basic errors going back the other way. This is a good summary of it.

• We try to stay positive around here, so the positive is I can’t see another game this season where Andrew Brayshaw and Hayden Young will be going missing for almost a half of football. Brayshaw four touches in the second half, Young six (and none in the final term).

• Isaiah Dudley only won a call-up because Michael Frederick was injured, but he ended up playing the best game of his career. He looks fitter and more dangerous in season two.

WAFL PRE-SEASON

• Aaron Clarke has had back-to-back 40 goal seasons at Perth off limited preparation. This year he’s fit and firing and was one of their best in a hit-out against Peel. Expect him to challenge for the Bernie Naylor Medal this year.

• One name to keep an eye out for in Bassendean is Lucas Impey. A 200cm ruck out of the VFL, he’s only been playing footy for a few years. Agile and skilful and caught the eye at the weekend.

• U18 WA squad member Leo Steed also stepped up to the level playing for the seniors at Swan Districts. Could be a chance of an early debut.

• Speaking of impressive young ruckmen, Frazer Rickson gets another mention after another impressive game at Subiaco. Taj Schofield was another with a performance of note.

• Coen Livingstone, Jonah Brooks and Chad Mulvogue are all new faces at the Falcons that the coaching staff have been very happy with so far this summer.

• Ex Geelong and Hawthorn mid Cooper Stephens was a huge signing for East Perth last year before doing his ACL. It looks like he’s ready to go. Steady for the Royals last week, named in the best this week.

• Mitchell Geier is a player who South Fremantle could pluck from the ressies this year. Kicked five goals against West Coast and put his hand up.

• Zac Mainwaring has been getting some midfield looks at Claremont and he’s been impressive. Grows by the year.

WAFLW PRE-SEASON

• This week’s fixtures kicked off with the WA U18s playing Peel. Marley Kelman was the standout for the State program. She’s a bottom-aged player from Kalgoorlie who made her debut for Subiaco last year. Kelman moved up to Perth for footy and has flourished over summer. She’s tough in the contest, rotates between forward and mid, plays like a tall and hits the scoreboard. Write the name down.

• Lunay Van Den Heever was strong in defence fresh off being named BOG as a forward for the AFL’s multicultural girls academy a couple of weeks ago. Will feature for West Perth.

• West Perth’s GAA recruit Elle McEvoy was excellent in the midfield on the weekend. Veteran Brooke Hongell kicked three in her return after a year away from footy.

• Subiaco recruited Caitie Smith out of North Beach in the Perth Footy League and she looks ready to take the step up. Kicked 13 goals in the PFL last season, and had three on Sunday in a pre-season hit-out with Subi.

That’s us all caught up.

Jumper Punches is produced by Playbookx. We’re a sports marketing company that works to unite brands, sports and community. If you’re a brand looking to grow your business, or a sport looking for help with commercial strategy, content or marketing, let’s have a chat.

Catch you next week.

Now that opening round is out of the way we can get into football properly.

Yes, it was good to watch some footy with something on the line. No, it’s not a proper round if you randomly leave out half the teams, and two entire States.

Anyway….

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In today’s newsletter: Brief previews of the Fremantle and West Coast round one fixtures, the players who impressed across the first round of WAFL and WAFLW pre-season games.

Alright, let’s get stuck in.

Jumper Punches is proudly supported by our launch partner Lightning Minds. Whether you’re ditching the drink entirely or taking a breather mid-session, their non-alcoholic craft beer is here to help you strike a healthy balance.

FREMANTLE

Geelong v Fremantle, 1.15pm AWST Saturday, GMHBA Stadium

• Very cool and not at all daunting starting the season in Geelong against a team that needs to respond after an Opening Round thumping…

• This weekend’s games showed us that pace and skill is at a premium - when hasn’t it been? Moving the ball quickly got results in each of the five games. Freo can play that kind of footy, but they don’t always elect to.

• Justin Longmuir maintains that speed isn’t an issue for his side. He just wants to make sure they score more out of their front half and capitalise on turnovers closer to goal. He went in depth about it with Craig O’Donoghue here.

WEST COAST

Gold Coast v West Coast, 3.10pm AWST Sunday, People First Stadium

• Speaking of daunting…

• Shit the Suns look good.

• Reuben Ginbey, Tim Kelly, Harry Edwards, Jack Graham and Liam Duggan all face fitness tests this week before they are ruled in or out. It’s a very different side with them on the park. Liam Baker definitely misses with suspension.

• Expect all three of Willem Duursma, Cooper Duff-Tytler and Josh Lindsay to debut.

WAFL PRE-SEASON

The men’s pre-season games kicked off with Subiaco 12.9 (81) beating Swan Districts 9.9 (63) and Claremont 16.9 (105) beating East Perth 7.9 (51). Here are some of the takeaways as provided by footy managers and coaches:

• Ben Sokol looks like he’ll pick up exactly where he left off at the Lions, kicking three goals in his first run of the year. Sonny Siano was another forward who looks like he’ll take a leap after a strong debut year, and keep an eye on Marlon Corbett across half-back after a huge summer.

• Frazer Rickson is another one to watch at Subi. The ruckman competed well in his first run in the seniors and impressed a few around the club. Had some mild draft interest leading into last season, so will be closely watched.

• A fit Zane Trew and a reinvigorated Clint Hinchliffe could make Swan Districts a very different proposition this year. Trew kicked three on Friday night after missing most of last year with injury and Hinchliffe, the former Big Bash player who has been dominant in the ammos for a couple of years now, looks ready to make an impact.

• Darcy Craven kicked two for East Perth in his return to the club from the Brisbane Lions. He’ll be a handy inclusion to the twice defeated grand finallists.

• Sam Van Rooyen stepped up in the league side for Claremont with three goals. It was a three-headed monster for the Tigers, with Van Rooyen, Keiran Gowdie and Jaiden Hunter kicking 10 between them.

WAFLW PRE-SEASON

All clubs except Perth had their first hit-out on the weekend, with round one only a few weeks away. Here are some notable performances:

• Kayla Van Den Heever was a standout in the midfield for West Perth, with 20-year-old defender Liliana Grassenis very influential down back. They’ve recruited well, but the Falcons’ improvement will come as much from their 20-24 year olds as it will from any new faces.

• The state’s leading AFLW draft chance Cara Dziegielewski kicked two goals. She’s already an All-Australian U18 ruck, so if she can get more damaging up forward, then watch out. Another young Falcon to watch is multiple U15 All-Australian Bella Nelson, who was very good in her first senior hit-out.

• Jaime Henry was elite for Swan Districts last year and has set the standard again this summer. She helped Swans demolish Subiaco over the weekend in concerning signs for the Lions. Jess Cox (Box Hill) and Chloe Reilly (East Fremantle) have added a bit of class at Bassendean.

• Jayme Harken doesn’t muck around. The WAFLW’s medal machine kicked three out of the midfield to start her year. Another Dhara Kerr Medal loading?

• Keep an eye on 19-year-old Emma Henderson at Claremont as well. She caught the eye on the wing and half-back.

• Former leading goalkicker Kate Barlett kicked two to start her season back on Peel’s list. It wasn’t enough to help the Thunder beat South Fremantle, who had a comfortable win with a pair of teenage mids - Kate Newson and Eva Flynn - starring.

I wasn’t alone there. Dennis Cometti was a friend to many, extremely generous with his time, his guidance and his counsel.

His death at the age of 76 has rightly sent the football community and everyone who came into his orbit into mourning.

It says so much of the man that although he was one of history’s greatest callers - and untouchable in Australian Rules football - he will be remembered far and wide for who he was as a person as much as what he did in his career.

A gifted player at West Perth, mentored by the great Polly Farmer.

A coach, first in the suburban Sunday League with Maddington, Osborne Park and Kelmscott, then at the Falcons in the WAFL.

A broadcaster without peer.

An outstanding human being.

As Bruce McAvaney once said: “Nobody is irreplaceable. But there is only one Cometti and there will only ever be one Cometti.”

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Back in 2016, having worked with him on a few projects, Dennis agreed to let me cover his final year as a commentator.

We would catch up regularly for coffee, for chats that would begin as a background interview but quickly divert to the changing roles of the media in the game, parenthood, career advice, his childhood hero Bob Johnson and, on a number of occasions, the 1998 Hell in a Cell match between Mankind and The Undertaker.

Having the attention of the great Dennis Cometti made you feel special. And he gave it freely to so many. He was always up for a chat.

Revisiting the final piece from that year of coverage has been a reminder of those fantastic qualities.

It’s one of the defining characteristics of the man — he may be one of the biggest names in football but no one felt uncomfortable in his presence.

“Often people that see someone they recognise from TV, there might be a snide remark or a bit of a giggle,” his protege Basil Zempilas said.

“But when I see people react to Dennis, I see them react with respect and almost a sense of awe.”

Centimetre Perfect. Like a cork in the ocean. A stadium holds its breath. Went in optimistically and came out misty optically. Some of the words he will be remembered for.

But personally, I’ll remember him as much for the ribbing he gave me when I moved away from Yokine - where he lived most of his life - and became a western suburbs sellout.

“You always live in fear of buggering things up,” he told me the morning after his final call.

“So to get through unscathed is a nice feeling.”

Unscathed. Unmatched. Untouchable.

Vale Dennis, you’ll be missed.

Here are just a few of the tributes to the great man that are worth your time today:

• Humour, warmth, talent, work ethic: Basil Zempilas’ tribute to Dennis Cometti [The West]

• AFL world mourns passing of iconic commentator Dennis Cometti [AFL]

• Dennis Cometti, legendary sports commentator, dies aged 76 [ABC]

The concept sucks, I agree. The fact they caved and added an MCG game means it’s now just a round where WA and SA get excluded for some reason. Cool!

But footy is footy and we haven’t seen a game played properly in anger since the W wrapped late last year, so no matter how poorly they treat the State, they know we’ll all be watching. Also cool!

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In today’s newsletter: Why it will be hard to overlook Mason Cox, more Murphy love, the two players who will lift the Eagles’ midfield floor, plus a rundown of the standouts from the WA U18 boys and U18 girls practice games - including the first ever Freo & West Coast father-daughter split.

Let’s get stuck in.

Jumper Punches is proudly supported by our launch partner Lightning Minds. Whether you’re ditching the drink entirely or taking a breather mid-session, their non-alcoholic craft beer is here to help you strike a healthy balance.

FREMANTLE

• It’s increasingly hard to see Mason Cox being overlooked in round one. I dislike round one selection stories - it’s just one game - but this is a valid one. Do I think he’s better than Sean Darcy? No. But Darcy has missed both practice games now, even though he played the reserves game on Saturday. Cox has been better than solid in both games. He probably deserves a shot. But the question to ponder is that with no more practice games left, is Darcy better playing another WAFL scratchy, or should they just bring him in if he’s fit enough?

• There were three excellent signs for Fremantle’s midfield on the weekend. The first, clearly, was Murphy Reid’s 30 touches and just general excellence. It was enough for Kane Cornes to say he was giving shades of Stevie J, Gary Ablett Jr and Scott Pendlebury. He’s still likely to play mostly forward, but can be rolled through the middle to mix things up. The second was Hayden Young’s eight clearances in the first half. He’ll only get better as the season progresses. The third was Neil Erasmus - he looks like he’s taken a step up after his finish to last season. If he keeps his pre-season form up he’ll offer great depth to a midfield which has been shallow at times.

• How good is Josh Treacy hey? Was unreal last week further up the ground. Kicked five this time. Big season looms.

WEST COAST

• One of the original goals of this newsletter was the find the positives in footy. First attempt: it’s just pre-season. We’ve seen sides get pumped before and it mean nothing in the regular season [the way it happened was quite concerning though, I agree].

• Josh Lindsay is everything they promised. He’s already the best kick in the team, and they need to find a way to get it to him as much as possible when exiting the backline. He’s had the best impact so far of the three first-rounders, even though I expect the others to be better long-term. The kick inside 50 to find Willem Duursma was something special.

• Deven Robertson will be a solid player all season. He might not give you 9/10 performances, but he’s a steady 7. You need a couple of those. Hamish Davis will be similar this year, but his ceiling is far higher.

TALENT PATHWAYS

WA’s U18 boys squad played a scratch match on the weekend, with the summer squad split into two teams - WA Black and WA Gold - and bolstered with some extra colts players who had been nominated by their clubs.

Chris Ch’Ng, who runs the @wafootyprospects Instagram account and works in the S&C team at East Fremantle, gave us a rundown of some of the players who impressed:

• Leo Steed (Swan Districts): The standout best on ground on Saturday. Steed’s burst of speed and penetrating kick was on show. An underrated prospect externally, but highly rated within the program.

• Jimmy Artemis (East Fremantle): The bottom-aged prospect looked classy in the midfield for WA Black. Artemis weaved through traffic to drive the ball forward. Firming to be part of WA’s midfield on-ball brigade at the U18 champs after taking out the State’s MVP award in the 16s last year.

• Lucas Robinson (South Fremantle): Showed his ball-winning ability as a big-bodied mid. In the contest, Robinson won the hard balls and was able to feed out to his teammates.

• Fin Yeo (East Fremantle): The Sharks livewire displayed immense defensive pressure during the game. Although he didn’t end up with any majors, he set up his teammates to get WA Black the win.

The girls U18 program also had their first hit-out last week against the WAFLW U23 All Stars. It was a tough match-up against bigger, more experienced players but the State Program’s new Head Coach and Talent Manager Kate Orme let us know a couple of their standouts. She gave us the names, we provide the background.

• Cara Dziegielewski (West Perth): No surprises here. The reigning U18 All-Australian ruck and the State’s leading AFLW draft prospect this season. She’s got high-level athleticism, great second efforts and tremendous potential. Will be keen to see what the ruck/forward split is this year.

• Lexi Strachan (West Perth): Will be WA’s leading on-baller at the championships this year after impressing off a wing in ‘25. Wins plenty of the ball and uses it well. No shock that she was a standout last week.

• Miley Hynes (West Perth): A bottom-aged midfielder who is quick, skilled and basically didn’t take a minute off last week in a tough game. She’s eligible for the draft next year and will be a massive story. Why? Because she can nominate as a father-daughter pick for both West Coast and Fremantle. Her dad is Eagles premiership player and Sandover medallist David Hynes, one of a handful of players to run out for both clubs - and you only need one game to qualify as a father-daughter.

That’s the lot for today. Thanks again for reading.

Jumper Punches is produced by Playbookx. We’re a sports marketing company that works to unite brands, sports and community. If you’re a brand looking to grow your business, or a sport looking for help with commercial strategy, content or marketing, let’s have a chat.

Short, sharp and to the point this week with Fremantle and West Coast playing a pre-season scratchy on the weekend.

Scratchy is the right word for it too, the wind was bad enough to cancel the Rottnest Swim and it made things very hard on the footy field too.

These are the games to look out for this weekend from a WA perspective:

• Sat, Feb 28: Fremantle v Adelaide, 3.10pm at Rushton Park

• Sun, Mar 1: West Coast v Port Adelaide, 3.10pm at Mineral Resources Park

Also a quick thanks to Mateo from One Percenters for his shout-outs this week. If you like good, considered footy writing, consider subscribing to his newsletter too.

Alright, let’s get stuck in.

Jumper Punches is proudly supported by our launch partner Lightning Minds. Whether you’re ditching the drink entirely or taking a breather mid-session, their non-alcoholic craft beer is here to help you strike a healthy balance.

FREMANTLE

• The infamous ‘don’t touch the ball’ position is out for Jye Amiss. He appears to be playing closer to goal this year and the change bore fruit against West Coast with four goals. He kicked straight too, on a day where the wind was crazy.

• He wasn’t the only Dockers forward to star. Josh Treacy looked like a Year 12 playing the Year 9s. He monstered opponents, crashed packs and took CLUNKS. Pat Voss also had plenty of nice moments. The issue is this all has to be taken with a grain of sand, given the Eagles had a depleted backline which got more depleted after half-time when they rested more talls. Good signs, want to see it against better opposition.

• Brandon Walker was one of the stories of the day. The forgotten defender couldn’t get a look in after recovering from a shoulder op last year. But against the Eagles, his pace and dare stood out. I’ve always been a massive Walker fan, and copped a bit for it. Yes, he makes some bad decisions, but his willingness to take what’s in front of him and his pace stand out in a side that can be careful with their ball use out of defence. Name him round one, JLo.

• After all the midfield talk, Luke Jackson just played as a ruck. Go figure.

• One thing which annoys me, and looks like it still has a way to go, is Freo’s inability to lock the ball in their forward 50 once it hits the deck. It bounces out way too easily. It’s clearly why they targeted quick, defensive-minded small forwards like Tobyn Murray and Chris Scerri. The problem was still there to an extent against the Eagles. One to watch.

• Also after all the midfield talk, Murphy Reid looks like he’ll play vast majority forward again. Everything he touched turned to gold, Freo just preferred to give centre-bound looks to the likes of Matt Johnson, Neil Erasmus, Shai Bolton and Jaeger O’Meara.

WEST COAST

• Buying up all the Jobe Shanahan stocks available. Harley aside, no Eagles youngster in the past five years has impressed me as much as Shanahan. His ability to get up the ground, pluck marks out of a pack, and finish, is top tier, especially for a teenager. There was one 3v1 contest win at the end which had me off my seat. He got better the longer the game went on.

• Speaking of Harley Reid, I couldn’t be more excited to see what he can do this year. He has more natural talent than most people could dream of, he looks like he’s done the work this off-season, and he was one of the best on the park on the weekend. Don’t argues, instinctive stoppage goals, and plenty of niggle - the game had all the prime Harley metrics. He and Tom McCarthy were to obvious one-two in the middle for West Coast, which is as exciting as their on-ball brigade has been in years.

• Was anybody else pleasantly surprised by Jacob Newton’s contribution? I didn’t have particularly high hopes for the second-round mid-season draftee, but there were a handful of moments where he showed patience and creativity at the same time (if that makes sense?). He could be a handy high half-forward.

• The draftees all did what they needed to do. Willem Duursma had some very nice moments, including kicking a long-range goal to open the scoring. Cooper Duff-Tytler and Josh Lindsay showed flashes. All of them will probably be there in round one.

• Prayers up for Noah Long. He’s a handy young player who looks like he’ll face another long stint on the sidelines with a knee injury. Shit news.

That’s the lot for today. Thanks again for reading.

Jumper Punches is produced by Playbookx. We’re a sports marketing company that works to unite brands, sports and community. If you’re a brand looking to grow your business, or a sport looking for help with commercial strategy, content or marketing, let’s have a chat.

People played football on the weekend, and there were a couple of intraclubs as well. I can’t tell you how much of a relief that was. I really didn’t have much pre-season training content left in me…

Before we get started, a quick ask: I’ve been nominated for the Business News 2026 40under40 and would love your vote. It’s pretty cool to be in the mix and I really appreciate everyone who has already reached out.

And if you’re new here, I’d love you to sign up to keep getting these emails in your inbox every Monday, wrapping up everything you need to know about the Dockers and Eagles AFL and AFLW sides, WAFL, WAFLW, colts, school and talent programs.

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In today’s newsletter: A win for Origin footy, Jackson’s mid trial, injured Eagle’s impressive return, the rise again of Murphy Reid, an early stake in the ground and the big Eagle who dominated the intraclub.

Let’s get stuck in.

Jumper Punches is proudly supported by our launch partner Lightning Minds. Whether you’re ditching the drink entirely or taking a breather mid-session, their non-alcoholic craft beer is here to help you strike a healthy balance.

ORIGIN

• Bad news first: I owe Xavier Ellis a carton. Everything else was good news. The contest was entertaining, the scores were close in the fourth quarter, the crowd was frothing, the TV ratings were immense, and everybody wants to do it again. The question is… who plays? Heart says Victoria should hold the court and play South Australia next year. Then WA v SA the following year. Head says the WA Government will be at the table with serious incentives to host again - either a rematch or WA v SA.

• I was almost right. If WA had a bit more class in the middle, we would have pinched it. If we’re in it again next year it’s the obvious thing to address - but the cupboard is a little bare. Joe Fonti is one I’d consider, but that’s more for delivery out of the backline. Actually, looking at the list as I write this, it pretty much is what it is… unless someone like Dan Curtin or even Elijah Hewett takes a massive leap this season.

• How good was it to see Jake Waterman back on the field and performing at a high level. Jesse Hogan was undeniably WA’s best, but Waterman was the next best forward behind him. Used his body well, got up the ground to get involved in scoring chains - has not missed a beat. If the young Eagles can get it to him, he looks ready to kick 40+ for the second time in his career.

• Came away from Luke Jackson’s midfield run thoroughly whelmed. He was pretty good in the role, but more impactful when he went forward. He didn’t look out of place. If that’s the floor, they’re onto something.

• Jeez I’m a fan of Wil Powell off half-back. Reckon he’s in for a massive year. As if Gold Coast needed any extra help. Booming, accurate kick and willing to take the game on. Thought he was very good for WA.

• Danielle Laidley’s player ratings in The West are always a good read, do yourself a favour.

• I hope they do an AFLW version later this year because WA will slaughter the Vics in that fixture.

FREMANTLE

• Jesus Christ, Murphy Reid might be better than we thought in year two. My gut feel was it would be better to leave him forward another year, but in the Dockers’ intraclub last week he played mainly on-ball and was best on ground. He had 31 touches, set up multiple goals and racked up the clearances. When you watch the vision, his touch is crazy, particularly by hand. The person receiving the ball doesn’t even have to think about adjusting stride. Boy oh boy, wowee.

• Hayden Young kept going forward, he kicked two goals, which is a watch-and-see going into the pre-season fixtures. Don’t love it, given he kicks goals from the middle anyway, but if that’s the switch to give more minutes to Reid, I don’t hate it either.

• Tobyn Murray looks like the kind of guy you can depend on as a small forward. Repeat efforts, defensive intensity and makes the most of his opportunities when they arise. That’s as much as you can do in that position.

• I’m also putting an early stake in the ground on Adam Sweid, almost every session there are one or two bits of vision that make your eyebrows lift. Not saying he’s going to come in and star - just underlining his name in case he does, so I can say I told you so…

WEST COAST

• Let’s start with a very good read from Nathan Schmook at AFL Media, speaking to Andrew McQualter about the inner workings of the Eagles offseason. Pod will be a must-listen when it drops.

• Cooper Duff-Tytler was the story of the West Coast intraclub. The big teenager played forward and kicked five. Yes, he wasn’t playing against superstars but if you can’t get a bit of joy out of your pick No.4 kicking a bag in February, then you need some help.

• At least two of those goals came off the back of some Harley Reid brilliance, the first breaking through a pack at speed, and the second spotting CDT up with a slick 45 across goal.

• If Josh Lindsay keeps kicking like he did at Lathlain, he’ll be hard to keep out. Give him a gap and he’ll hit the kick.

That’s the lot for today. Thanks again for reading.

Jumper Punches is produced by Playbookx. We’re a sports marketing company that works to unite brands, sports and community. If you’re a brand looking to grow your business, or a sport looking for help with commercial strategy, content or marketing, let’s have a chat.

A very special one today for our paid up Jumper Punches subscribers.

We touched on State of Origin on Monday and why WA will defy the odds and win. I now have a carton bet on this with Xavier Ellis - who called me out publicly because he knew I couldn’t back down. So now there’s extra incentive….

Today’s edition continues our mission of getting some of the best footy writers and creators under the hood helping us build out this community of WA footy tragics - and when we needed a historic ranking, there was only one man to call.

Sean Cowan is the Executive Editor of Business News, has been WA Journalist of the Year three times and is also a prominent WA football historian.

He’s been kind enough to write for Jumper Punches with a deep dive on WA’s five best moments in Origin football.

The majority of today’s edition is for paid subscribers. If you haven’t signed up, there’s never been a better time.

While the Monday edition is free to read every week, paid members also get fortnightly features, deeper coverage of the talent pathway and PSA football, plus first access to events and merchandise.

And every cent of subscriber money goes back into growing out this project into a real hub for WA footy fans - no matter what colours you wear.

Alright, let’s get stuck in.

It’s now 28 years since Western Australia played State of Origin football, and that was in what felt like a soulless game against South Australia at the now-demolished Football Park in Adelaide.

The six-goal loss to the Croweaters was WA’s sixth in a row and underscored just how little interest there was in the concept by that point, with crowd numbers hovering around 16,000-18,000 people and players regularly withdrawing from games due to their focus on club success in the AFL.

But there was a time, in the distant 1980s, when the Sandgropers were the kings of Origin. Or at least joint kings, if there is such a thing.

And it’s no surprise that the most memorable of those Origin moments all came against the Vics. Because as much as we loved winning against SA, who we always saw as our footballing equals, it was much sweeter to beat the mob that kept stealing our best players.

So coming up with a list of the top five State of Origin moments in WA’s history wasn’t that difficult. WA only played State of Origin football between 1977 and 1998, and we basically checked out after the Eagles were born.

We came up against Victoria on 19 occasions and finished with a respectable seven victories that underpinned WA being crowned national champions in four out of six championships held between 1979 and 1986. During that period, immediately before the advent of the Eagles for the start of the 1987 season, Western Australia was every bit as good as Victoria when the games were played on the wide, open expanses of Subiaco Oval. At the end of that era, the ledger stood at six wins apiece.

Breaking those six victories down further into a top five, in order, is perhaps a more difficult exercise. But here’s where I have landed:

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This weekend just gone was the last football-free weekend we’ll have until October. That’s a daunting realisation for some and will no doubt prompt conflicting emotions. Bring it on, I say.

It kicks off with WA taking on the Vics in Origin on Saturday, then unofficial match simulations between sides begin Monday - all broadcast on Kayo/Fox. They lead straight into official pre-season games starting on Feb 25, then into Opening Round on Thursday, March 5.

These are the pre-season games of note for the local teams:

• Sat, Feb 21: Fremantle v West Coast match simulation, 9am at Victor George Kailis Oval.

• Sat, Feb 28: Fremantle v Adelaide, 3.10pm at Rushton Park

• Sun, Mar 1: West Coast v Port Adelaide, 3.10pm at Mineral Resources Park

We genuinely can’t wait. This newsletter is at its best when there’s actual games on. If you like what we’re doing and keen to help Jumper Punches grow, the best thing you can do is forward it to your mates and get them to sign up.

In today’s newsletter: Why WA is actually a good chance in Origin, the tall teen that has Tassie excited, and your questions answered.

Alright, let’s get stuck in.

Jumper Punches is proudly supported by our launch partner Lightning Minds. Whether you’re ditching the drink entirely or taking a breather mid-session, their non-alcoholic craft beer is here to help you strike a healthy balance.

ORIGIN

I have a confession to make.

Despite spending almost 3/4 of my life in Western Australia, and writing a newsletter devoted to WA footy - I’m actually not born and bred. I’m a Queenslander. I get particularly passionate for three games in the depths of winter, I love the Broncos and will struggle to give the Perth Bears my whole heart when they come on the scene.

But my entire Australian Rules experience - through which I’ve formed the tightest bonds of friendship, experienced the highs and lows, and somehow formed a career out of - has been West Australian to its core.

That’s why I write this newsletter. And that’s why I will be proudly barracking for the Black Swans this weekend.

And my experience as a Queenslander is also why I know WA are a good chance of winning despite the Vics being ABSOLUTELY STACKED.

Over the years I’ve seen some very, very ordinary Queensland sides smash New South Wales. Because it just means more to them. WA have that same vibe.

The two States are very similar in a sporting context. WA has always had the WAFL, which had to endure its best players being poached by the VFL. Same at the QRL and NSWRL. Once the VFL let a WA side into the comp in the late 80s, they became a dominant force in the 1990s. Same as the NSWRL and the Broncos.

And being the ‘big’ state breeds complacency.

The Victorians have had multiple chances to represent their State at senior level. The Bushfire fundraiser in 2020 wasn’t that long ago. It certainly wasn’t as long ago as 1998, when WA played its last fixture at the level.

If Dean Cox and his staff can tap into the history, State pride, and get the team a bit pissed off - and the role player types like Liam Baker, Jaeger O’Meara, Stephen Coniglio, Nathan Broad can tap into their best - then don’t be shocked if the result falls our way.

Because if you’ll excuse a well-worn footy analogy… the Vics just don’t want it as much.

A couple of reads to get you in the mood

• Jake and Chris Waterman on the family’s now indelible link to Origin

• The Chad Warner-Kozzie Pickett combo should be very very nice

AFL

• Just in case you didn’t have enough Luke Jackson content this pre-season… he was one of the best in Freo’s intraclub on the weekend. Kicked two goals, made an impact as an on-baller. Will be watching closely where he lines up in Origin.

• Nathan Schmook wrote a good piece giving some insight into the S&C changes at the Dockers in the offseason and what to expect from them.

• More praise for Cooper Duff-Tytler coming out of West Coast, this time from ruck Matt Flynn.

• Bo Allan was back in defence at the Eagles late last week and showed a bit of flair. If he has a couple of good pre-season games would love to see him handed the spot freed up by Tom McCarthy’s move to the middle. Give Allan 3-4 games there and let him settle and get to work.

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TALENT PROGRAM

If you haven’t heard of Axel Walsh already, you will soon. Tasmania last week named him on a list of 17-year-olds they are allowed to talk to about becoming a pre-listed player.

The Devils have the right to pre-list a bunch of 17-year-olds over the next couple of years, signing them before they can even get to the open draft. Gold Coast and GWS both had similar concessions.

Walsh is right in the mix to be one of the Devils’ first signings.

The East Perth ruckman stepped into the spotlight at last year’s under-16 national championships. Not only is he already more than 200cm tall, but he has fantastic skills, an outstanding footy IQ and he’s athletic as hell. It’s no wonder he’s already being discussed as the No.1 pick in 2027.

The thing that stunned me was his work rate and willingness to push hard defensively. That’s very rare for any good teenager, let alone one of his size.

There’s already positive talk coming out of the WA under-18 summer program and if Walsh can stay injury free, he’ll do some very nice things this year. Tassie are within their rights to be excited.

JUMPER PUNCHES MAILBAG

If you’ve got a question to ask, either chuck it in the comments on this newsletter if you’re a paid subscriber or reply to this email and we’ll get you in the next edition.

Charlie Nicholls development coming along? (adz29 on Instagram)

Short answer: yes. Nicholls kicked two goals in the intraclub on the weekend and has some Freo staffers very excited about what he could become. A good chance to debut at some point this season and one to watch closely at Peel.

Who lines up first out of CDT, J Williams or A Reid as 3rd tall/ruck pinch hitter? (marcjfento on Instagram) (similar question from misterjpags)

The beauty of having five on the bench and no sub this season means you can probably play two of them. There’s some talk that Archer Reid will play as second ruck and CDT will play mostly forward. I can see that working.

Tom McCarthy’s ceiling this season? (pete51507 on Instagram)

Jesse from True Footy thinks it’s a John Worsfold Medal. Everything I’ve seen from Harley Reid this summer makes me think that medal’s his to lose, but McCarthy has been genuinely impressive as a midfielder. Give it a couple of pre-season games and I’ll give a more definitive take but McCarthy has got to be one of the best mid-season stories we’ve seen yet.

Are leagues like the SWFL closer to WAFL level than previous years with training standards etc? (ruddy_10 on Instagram)

This question comes up a bit but the gap is still significant. The environment and infrastructure around a good WAFL club is head and shoulders above the country leagues and the Perth Football League. A strong PFL or country team might be able to match a WAFL ressies side, but the next step is a big one.

What do you think a pass mark for West Coast looks like in 2026? (spncrrb)

If they can roll out 4+ wins and get serious minutes into this year’s high-end draftees then that’s enough for me. It’s a long road back to contention.

That’s the lot for today. Thanks again for reading.

Jumper Punches is produced by Playbookx. We’re a sports marketing company that works to unite brands, sports and community. If you’re a brand looking to grow your business, or a sport looking for help with commercial strategy, content or marketing, let’s have a chat.

Look, honestly, this is the frustrating part of pre-season where we’ve seen what most teams are trying to do but can’t tell if it’s going to work yet because they haven’t played anybody.

It’s easier to get a kick, or move the ball a certain way, when you know exactly what your opponent is trying to do as well.

Just be patient, practice matches are not far away.

Oh and before we get into it, if you’re a listener you’ll be happy to hear The Hard Ball Gets AFL Show returns today - episode should drop mid-afternoon. If you’re not across it, do yourself a favour.

In today’s letter: Defence takes a hit at the Eagles, Harley hype rolls on, Jacko steps back from the ruck again, the young Dockers defender to watch plus a few young pre-season standouts in the WAFL.

Alright let’s get stuck in.

Jumper Punches is proudly supported by our launch partner Lightning Minds. Whether you’re ditching the drink entirely or taking a breather mid-session, their non-alcoholic craft beer is here to help you strike a healthy balance.

WEST COAST

• Fingers crossed for Brady Hough. The youngster landed awkwardly on his ankle at training and is expected to miss 3-4 weeks. There were reports around earlier that it was more serious. One to keep an eye on. Hough has been one of their better kids the past two years both in defence and in the middle when needed. I’m really sold on him as a heart-and-soul 150-200 gamer. Just does the jobs that need doing.

• With Brandon Starcevich also on ice with an ACL strain, it doesn’t leave them a hell of a lot of wiggle room down back.

• In more positive news, Elliot Yeo played a half of match sim on Saturday as a mid and forward. He won’t be a match-winner, but he’ll certainly raise the floor if his body doesn’t break down.

• Shocking, I know, but there have also been glowing reports of Harley Reid’s performance in the same match sim. He’s fit, hungry and he has some help. Anything is possible.

FREMANTLE

• The Dockers are moving the ball faster in match simulation this pre-season. But I also feel like that sentence was written last pre-season as well. By all reports they’re trying to take things on more, which is a positive, but I’m keeping my powder dry until we see it in anger.

• After increasing his ruck training minutes last week, Luke Jackson has now gone back to more of a mid-forward split in match simulation. With Sean Darcy suffering a minor calf issue (watch this space) that may change, but it genuinely seems like Freo would rather not use Jackson as a ruck if they didn’t have to.

• Hayden Young has consistently been spending long breaks in the forward line this pre-season. He’s shown great ability there, but are you robbing the side of its best (or second maybe behind Murphy Reid) kick inside 50?

• Heath Chapman is getting a bit of buzz as well. Have loved this kid since his first game and have been waiting for the season where he goes from reliable to really, really good. This could be it.

STATE OF ORIGIN

• All-Australian Eagle Jake Waterman has been included in the WA squad according to The West. It’s a stacked forward line, provided they can get it to them. I’m tipping WA btw - seen too many ‘ordinary’ Queensland sides smack the Blues in the NRL to believe the best team on paper always wins.

• Big shout-out to the lads at Raise Creative who put together this concept for a new WA jersey. Elite work, take a look when you get a sec. The collar is 🤌

WAFL

• One of West Coast’s big WAFL recruits has left before the season has even started. Former Collingwood forward Ash Johnson has headed to South Australia to play for Sturt. It’s a loss but the influx of players at both levels this season means we can still expect a far more competitive season from the Eagles.

• Lucas Cattalini was one colts player who really impressed me last year, so it’s no surprise South Fremantle are already loving his work in the senior program. It’s a hard side to crack, but I’d expect to see the young key back play league sooner rather than later.

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That’s the lot for today. Thanks again for reading.

Jumper Punches is produced by Playbookx. We’re a sports marketing company that works to unite brands, sports and community. If you’re a brand looking to grow your business, or a sport looking for help with commercial strategy, content or marketing, let’s have a chat.

Today’s newsletter is primarily for paid subscribers but there’s a taste in front of the paywall. Becoming a paid-up member gets you access to exclusive content, monthly giveaways, plus early access to events and merch as the season gets underway.

Plus all the proceeds all go back into the project to help grow a community made for and by WA footy tragics.

It’s the second guest column of the pre-season, this time from Freo tragics Duck and Oz over at the Purple Reign podcast.

Check them out if you haven’t already:

Alright, let’s get stuck in.

Fremantle find themselves at a turning point in 2026. After cracking September last season, expectations are mounting for them to make a deep run or perhaps even lift an elusive cup. The boys from Purple Reign break down how they can live up to those expectations.

1. Back-to-back finals

Believe it or not, this is a rarity for the Dockers. Since they came into the league, the boys in purple have only made consecutive finals during their purple patch in 2012-15. After a stellar 2022 season, including the elimination final win over the Bulldogs at Optus Stadium, they followed it up with a 10-13 record in 2023, finishing 14th. The next year they finished 10th. Age is no longer an excuse. After making finals last season, they must see September action again in ‘26, and potentially a prelim, to properly enter the premiership window.

Read more

Congratulations are in order to the Perth Scorchers after (another) dominant win in the Big Bash League final. West truly is best.

For the regulars around here, yes this is a day later than usual because of the public holiday (also your author’s birthday) - do not be alarmed.

For the new faces who jumped on board last week - and there were plenty of you - thanks again and welcome. Tell your friends!

And for all of you AFL Fantasy heads - it’s live for 2026 and there is no better investment you can make in your game than signing up to Moreira’s Magic. Do yourself a favour.

In today’s letter: The role which could unlock Jye Amiss, Dockers SSP movement, Jake Waterman not missing a beat, an unlucky Eagles youngster and Perth signing another W gun.

Alright, let’s get stuck in.

Jumper Punches is proudly supported by our launch partner Lightning Minds. Whether you’re ditching the drink entirely or taking a breather mid-session, their non-alcoholic craft beer is here to help you strike a healthy balance.

FREMANTLE

• You can take a lot of pre-season positional switches with a grain of salt - Luke Jackson was back in the ruck last week, for instance - but the Jye Amiss wing experiment might be real. The Dockers opened the doors suring some match sim late last week and Amiss was one of the talking points. He was able to use his running capacity to get goalside and kick a couple early, which boosted his confidence when he was pushed forward later. He needs to find more pill, this could be how he does it.

• Mature-aged recruit Tobyn Murray caught the eye last week as well. The 20-year-old small forward from Geelong’s VFL program played high half-forward and used the ball well. He even shrugged off Josh Treacy at one point. Looks like he’ll be ready to go if called on.

• Chris Scerri appears to be the last man standing in the race for Freo’s open SSP spot. Another small forward with lightning pace, who rose from obscurity over the past 12 months.

• This passage of play is January gold:

WEST COAST

• Elijah Hewett is battling a minor calf issue. Not great for anyone, but super not great for a dynamic mover who has struggled to stay on the park. Still, everyone thought it was far worse when he stormed off the track earlier in the week. Small mercies.

• Speaking of injuries, there’s a fella named Jake Waterman who is on his way back from one. All reports indicate he’s looking elite. He took Reuben Ginbey back to school in match sim and will be a very welcome inclusion come round one.

• Tom McCarthy as a midfielder could be the most exciting part of West Coast’s early rounds. Yet to see it in a competitive match obviously, but watch closely over the pre-season fixtures.

STATE OF ORIGIN

• It’s sneaked up a bit, this fixture, but it’s only a couple of weeks away now. Here are the WA players already announced, with more to come: Callum Ah Chee
  Liam Baker, Tom Barrass, Shai Bolton, Charlie Cameron, Darcy Cameron, Jordan Clark, Patrick Cripps, Mitch Georgiades, Bradley Hill, Jesse Hogan, Lawson Humphries, Luke Jackson, Rory Lobb, Aaron Naughton, Kysaiah Pickett, Wil Powell, Trent Rivers, Brandon Starcevich, Sam Taylor, Chad Warner.

• Tickets are sold out but it will be live on 7 and Kayo.

• Wait and see on Baker and Starcevich, both have been easing their way through training at the Eagles.

WAFL

• This is a great wrap up of the young talent to watch in this season’s WAFL competition. Jordan McCardle at his best. Tyler Lindberg at East Perth is one I’m tipping for a breakthrough year and I’m keen to see what Jovan Petric can do at Swan Districts.

• Another week, another big signing at Perth. This time their WAFLW program has picked up another gun out of the AFLW - Richmond’s Katelyn Cox.

That’s the lot for today. Thanks again for reading.

Jumper Punches is produced by Playbookx. We’re a sports marketing company that works to unite brands, sports and community. If you’re a brand looking to grow your business, or a sport looking for help with commercial strategy, content or marketing, let’s have a chat.

There have been an influx of new faces this past week so let’s start with a heartfelt thank you to everybody who has signed up as either a free or a paid subscriber. Your support genuinely means the world.

If you like what you’ve read, or seen on Instagram, or will read in weeks to come - the one thing you can do to help is forward these emails on and get your mates to jump on board too.

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Today’s newsletter was meant to be exclusively for paid subscribers but given all the new faces, we’ve left a decent chunk of it in front of the paywall for your enjoyment.

It’s the first in a series of guest features this pre-season, kicking off with Kurt from the Golden Wings podcast - breaking down West Coast’s non-negotiables in season 2026.

Give him a follow or listen to the pod if the Eagles are your thing.

Alright, let’s get stuck in.

West Coast had a 2025 to forget on the field, but their offseason has set them up to begin the long climb back to contention. Kurt from Golden Wings breaks down the five things they must get right this year to keep the momentum going.

1. Wins, a handful of them

In 2022, West Coast recorded just two wins, their worst ever return, and a point in club history that many thought was rock bottom. Three wins in 2023, followed by five in 2024, showed steady progress and built hope for a more substantial leap in 2025. Not to be. A horror 2025 campaign saw the club secure just one win, the worst single-season win/loss record in the AFL era. Yet ironically, the consensus view seemed to be that the Eagles’ standard of on-field performance had improved, with several close matches against the competition’s best, including Adelaide (minor premiers), Collingwood (preliminary finalists), Geelong (runners-up) and the eventual back-to-back premiers Brisbane. To prove the team hasn’t regressed, the Eagles will need to convert those chances to wins in 2026, with five a respectable starting point.

2. Waterman gets a clean run

Last week, a competitive ‘best vs rest’ match-sim session gave Eagles fans their first look at McQualter’s preferred line-up. The defence looked strong, headlined by dual premiership recruits Liam Baker and Brandon Starcevich. The forward line, however, was light on experience, with an average age of 22.8, drastically inflated by 33-year-old veteran Jamie Cripps. With Oscar Allen and Liam Ryan out the door, and Cripps unlikely to play every game, forward leadership and scoring responsibility will rest heavily on spearhead Jake Waterman, who needs some luck to go his way with injury. After managing just eight games last year, Waterman looms as the senior target inside 50, and this young forward brigade will need him back to his All-Australian best if they’re going to put up a competitive score.

3. Harley needs help

For the average fan, Harley Reid’s second season might have disappointed. But when you factor in his interrupted pre-season, lack of senior support, media scrutiny and the weight of carrying one of the worst-performed midfields we’ve seen in recent times, it was a true show of grit from the 20-year-old wunderkind. Elliot Yeo’s grunt will be sorely missed around the ball as he transitions to a new role, so who will step up to support Harley? Fellow No.1 pick Willem Duursma will aim to join him in the middle and form a formidable partnership, but that’s a long-term play. Recycled midfielders Deven Robertson, Finlay MacRae, and Harry Schoenberg were recruited to add a hardened, physical edge to the young midfield core. The club will hope that one of these new additions, alongside Elijah Hewett, Jack Graham and Tom McCarthy, can shoulder the load and allow Harley to play his natural game in 2026.

Read more

Welcome back for what is already shaping up to be a massive 2026 for West Australian football.

For the uninitiated: Jumper Punches is a weekly newsletter that hits your inbox on a Monday with everything you need to know about WA footy from Fremantle and West Coast, to the WAFL league, colts and womens competitions, the talent pathway, school footy and beyond.

The Monday letter is free, but paid subscribers get access to additional content every other week, as well as being in with a chance to win a random monthly rewards - like Tom here, who took home a prize pack thanks to our launch partner Lightning Minds.

If you think you recognise him, that’s player agent Tom Seccull from Corporate Sports Australia. Be like Tom and become a subscriber today!

We’ve got an exciting batch of content coming up over the next few months, so there’s never been a better time to get on board as a fully-fledged Jumper Punches member.

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In today’s letter: Which Eagle has really caught the eye of the coaches, positional clues in both camps, how Freo could use Luke Jackson, close call for Dan Curtin, some good reads and a few WAFL snippets.

Alright, let’s get stuck in.

Jumper Punches is proudly supported by our launch partner Lightning Minds. Whether you’re ditching the drink entirely or taking a breather mid-session, their non-alcoholic craft beer is here to help you strike a healthy balance.

WEST COAST

• There’s a host of fresh faces down at West Coast but one that there’s a bit of buzz on internally is Cooper Duff-Tytler. He’s a big so he’ll struggle to dominate in year one but they are already rating him as one of the best three or four kicks at the club. Likely to start forward and push up the ground, hoping that he can lace out the likes of Jake Waterman with his vision and skill by foot.

• Willem Duursma looks likely to start on the wing if match sim is anything to go by. I’m also bullish on Hamish Davis holding down a wing spot all year. He’s got all the attributes and has always adapted quickly to whatever role is thrown at him. I’m about 50-50 on predicting good seasons from youngsters but don’t be shocked if he impresses you in 2026.

• Tom McCarthy is going to be added to the midfield rotation this year, which makes sense but does it rob them from too much off half-back? Or does first-round pick Josh Lindsay help take up that slack?

• Annoyingly, Liam Baker looks like he’s a chance to miss Origin with a leg injury. We’ll lean in on that fixture in weeks to come. But looking at the two sides on paper, we’ll need the blue-collar division to fire if WA are to take down a stacked Vic side.

FREMANTLE

• The new ruck rules will throw up a few surprises. At Freo, that’s looking like less ruck time for Luke Jackson? At least if pre-season training is anything to go by. The 🦄 appears to consistently be training more on-ball and forward so who knows what round one will look like?

• The following snippets thanks to new track-tweeter Lachie Byrne from 7NEWS Perth: Murphy Reid’s midfield times is growing, Hayden Young is looking fire and Jye Amiss started a lot of CBDs on the wing before floating forward.

• The Amiss move is something a lot of people have proposed before, particularly as he struggled to get his hands on the ball consistently last season. One of the more interesting proposed role changes, watch this space.

• Sam Sturt told The West’s Glen Quartermain he is targeting a round 10 return from a knee reconstruction. It’s a contract year for Sturt in a side which has a focus on upgrading its forward line. Has the talent, hope he gets another shot.

• Alex Pearce has been reappointed captain for a fourth consecutive year.

A FEW GOOD READS

Ryan Daniels: North Melbourne’s Paul Curtis opens up on life-threatening health scare (The West)

What Elijah Hewett must do to take game to next level (Mitch Woodcock, The West)

What Origin means to Shai Bolton (Nathan Schmook, AFL Media)

AROUND THE GROUNDS

• Just a quick note on WA’s Dan Curtin, who dislocated a kneecap at Adelaide training this morning. He’d been having a monster pre-season and looked likely to play more as an inside mid. Thankfully not an ACL, but shit news regardless.

WAFL

• Perth are going all-in on their women’s program this year - recruiting has been elite. Eagle and Docker Evie Gooch goes in as a key back, Poppy Stockwell shifts from South after a stint with Freo, former Collingwood player (and SNESA Angel) Caitlin Edwards returns to footy and Isla Baldwin and Carlton VFLW b&f Amy Trindade come over from Victoria. They’ll play finals.

• Keep an eye on Luke Hallett this year too. He joins the Demons from East Perth. Really talented and dynamic mid-fwd who could have been a draft chance if not for injury.

• Noah Hibbins-Hargreaves was one of the unluckiest players not to be picked up at the AFL draft last year. He’s picked Subiaco as the club to help him bridge the gap. Great get here, he’s the kind of player that will enjoy a bit more space than they typically find on VFL grounds.

• Former West Perth forward Jaspar Scaife is off to Notre Dame to be a punter after a short stint at Hawthorn.

That’s the lot for today. Thanks again for reading.

Jumper Punches is produced by Playbookx. We’re a sports marketing company that works to unite brands, sports and community. If you’re a brand looking to grow your business, or a sport looking for help with commercial strategy, content or marketing, let’s have a chat.

Welcome to the final edition for 2025. Before we get into it all, I want to take a moment to show my appreciation for everyone who has got around us this year.

Jumper Punches is the type of project I’ve wanted to launch for quite some time, a one-stop-shop for WA football fans from the elite to the grassroots and a genuine community of WA footy tragics.

It took a while for everything to come together, but I’ve been humbled by the support since launching it in late August.

To everyone who has signed up as a free subscriber or got around us on Instagram, but especially those who support us at the paid tier, a heartfelt thank you.

We’ve got a lot of cool digital and in-person activations in the pipeline to help take this to the next level next season - but I’d love your feedback too.

What would you like to see from us in 2026? Events, merch, podcasts, giveaways or even areas of coverage - hit this button and let me know…

Leave a comment

In today’s edition: We crown the 2025 Jumper Punches player of the year, plus give five predictions for WA football in season 2026.

Alright, let’s get stuck in.

At the beginning of October, we attempted to rank the individual seasons of every Docker, Eagle, WAFL, WAFLW and colts player to determine who had the best year in WA football.

It starts with a rating out of 10 for their season relative to the rest of their competition. That number then gets run through a formula with weightings given for higher levels of competition, whether a player won an individual medal for their efforts, team of the year selections and premierships.

Now, with the AFLW season done and dusted as well, we can crown a winner.

Congratulations Ella Roberts.

The West Coast gun turned 21 the other week, which is crazy.

She was the driving force behind the Eagles’ breakthrough AFLW finals campaign this season, and picked up the following accolades along the way:

🇦🇺 All-Australian selection for the second consecutive season;

🦅 West Coast Best & Fairest for the second consecutive season;

🫡 Captain of the AFLPA 22Under22 team

🥉 Third-placed finish in the Player’s Association MVP

🤝 Fourth-placed finish in the AFLW Best & Fairest Award

Ella narrowly pipped WAFLW gun Krstel Petrevski for the best individual season in WA football this year - pressure’s on the boys to step up in ‘26.

Jumper Punches is proudly supported by our launch partner Lightning Minds. Whether you’re ditching the drink entirely, or taking a breather mid-session, their non-alcoholic craft beer is here to help you strike a healthy balance this festive season. They also have a sick new collab with artist Kyle Hughes Odgers - it’s a limited edition so get in quick.

FIVE PREDICTIONS FOR WA FOOTY IN 2026

1. Harley Reid brains everyone

Harley’s 2025 was disappointing. Rough to say about a second-year player, but fair. Statistically he didn’t slide that much but his impact on games was down. It’s hard to impact games when your team only wins one game for the season, also fair, but we still expected more.

That will all change in 2026. He’s returned to pre-season training in better shape, he’s got a better haircut, the contract speculation has got a slight reprieve, he’s bought property in Perth and he’s now got a few other people around him to help out in the midfield. I’m not saying the Eagles will spike massively, but I am saying Harley will.

Over-under on Harley’s non-sponsored Instagram posts for season: 3.5

2. Luke Jackson All-Australian & Freo make a prelim

Two for the price of one here. Jackson has been in the 44-man All-Australian squad twice - first in 2023, then again this year. The change in ruck rules mean he can be even more effective at stoppages than he is already. A lot will come down to how the Dockers deploy Sean Darcy (and Mason Cox) but Jackson can genuinely damage the opposition as a ruck, mid or forward.

His versatility means if he is AA, he’ll likely be on the bench. But if he lifts another 10% and the team starts to move the ball with a bit more pace, I’m backing in both predictions here.

Over-under on Kane Cornes talking about Freo’s rucks: 13,487.5

3. Ella Roberts will win every medal in the AFLW

See above. She just turned 21 a week ago.

Over-under on Ella mentions in Jumper Punches: Slightly less than Kane and the rucks

4. East Perth finally get their flag

Whoa really bold call here hey. The mob that lost the past two WAFL grand finals might win the flag. It’s low-hanging fruit yes, but I’m happy with it. The Royals were meant to drop off this season after losing a lot of top-end talent but proved they are more than the sum of their parts.

With big recruit Cooper Stephens finally fit after an ACL injury and some other nice pieces coming on board, I’m backing them to get over the hump and win their first flag since 2002.

Over-under on ever mentioning the end of this year’s WAFL GF again: 0.5

5. We’re going to hear about Axel Walsh a lot

There’s a special talent out of East Perth who stands at 201cm, is athletic as all hell, covers the ground beautifully and uses the ball very well. His name is Axel Walsh and he’s turning 17 in January.

Walsh burst onto the scene at the U16 championships this year and is already looking likely to be wearing a Tasmanian Devils jumper in 2028. He’s a year away from being draft eligible, but the Devils can pre-list players in their 17th year and Walsh will be central to those discussions.

He’s the most exciting AFL draft prospect WA has had in some time.

Over-under on WA players drafted in 2026: 8.5

That’s us done for 2025. We’ll see you again mid-January.

Yours in football,

Nick.

Jumper Punches is produced by Playbookx. We’re a sports marketing company that works to unite brands, sports and community. If you’re a brand looking to grow your business, or a sport looking for help with commercial strategy, content or marketing, let’s have a chat.