Will Murphy work magic in the midfield?
Plus the latest AFLW trade news, and some other things but it's December so there's not a whole lot happening of consequence tbh
G’day friends. It’s December. You know what that means? Not a whole lot of footy news around.
But ‘not a whole lot’ is not nothing, so we press on.
There’s a few things happening in the AFLW trade space, and the AFLW draft is happening next Monday, plus there’s glimpses of news across the AFL and WAFL mens programs.
One benefit of less footy means more time for catch-ups with your friends in the sun with a beverage or two. I did it yesterday and highly recommend it.
By the way, if you’re a paying subscriber keep an eye on your inboxes over the next week or so, when we’ll be drawing names out of a hat to win a prize pack thanks to our partner Lightning Minds. Just a quick way of saying thanks for your support this year.
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. They also have a sick new collab with artist Kyle Hughes Odgers - it’s a limited edition so get in quick.
AFL
Murphy Reid grew up as a midfielder and wants to play more midfield minutes next year. If early indications are correct, he’ll get his wish. Reid has been getting decent mid stints during match sim, combining with Caleb Serong, Hayden Young and Andrew Brayshaw. That’s a very nice mix. If one of the 36 small forwards the club recruited at the draft can take some of Murphy’ forward-line minutes and be effective, then this could work very nicely.
New jumper numbers are in at Fremantle. Shai Bolton takes on the No.10 legacy, switching from 15. Judd McVee will wear 17, Maxon Cox 18, Toby Murray 11, Adam Sweid 15, Leon Kickett 19, Toby Whan 27 and Ryda Luke 40.
I apparently called this No.10 move months ago and consider this an act of war by the Fremantle admin…
SSP hopeful Chris Scerri has caught the eye at Dockers training, unleashing a noticeable turn of pace. Zac Harding, a 199cm ruck, has been trialled as a key defender.
Over at West Coast, Elliot Yeo looks to be trialling a stint at half-back. Not a huge fan of this. If he’s fully fit he just has to play in the middle. But I have been proved wrong in the past (if you can believe it).
AFLW TRADES
The Dockers aren’t afraid to swing for the fences at the AFLW trade table. This year the target was a key forward, and they got one of the best out there. Eden Zanker officially joined Fremantle from Melbourne today. The deal sees Zanker, young defender Lily Johnson, pick No.35 and a fourth-rounder head to Freo. The Demons get pick No.9, 27, 81 and a future second-rounder. Zanker immediately fixes a need for Freo. They are still an older side overall, but Zanker (26yo) adds to their stock of top-end talent in their prime - alongside the likes of Mim Strom (24), Gabby Newton (24) and Emma O’Driscoll (25).
Johnson is the partner of the other Melbourne defender to be traded west this off-season - Judd McVee. She had a breakthrough season as a defensive option at the Dees and should find a place in the best side at Freo.
West Coast have nabbed Emma Slocombe and 2026 fouth-rounder from North Melbourne in exchange for pick 48. Slocombe is a Claremont premiership player who couldn’t crack a permanent spot in the undefeated AFLW premiers’ best side. She’ll get a much better run at it now she’s back home. A quick, clean winger with heaps of upside. She adds to the glut of young talent at Mineral Resources Park.
WAFL
The WA Football board has a new member in Melanie Fisher - elected last week alongside PricewaterhouseCoopers managing partner Martina Crowley, who is serving a second term. Fisher a specialist in change management and health, wellbeing and people and culture.
Perth keep getting stronger, this time adding de-listed Collingwood defender Charlie Dean to the list.
South Fremantle still hold out hope of getting Willie Rioli back in red and white in season 2026. He’s a one-point player and who doesn’t love watching Willie get to work?
That’s the lot for today. Thanks again for reading.
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