Carlton Draught WAFL State Squad of 27Tuesday, May 23, 2017 - 10:25 AM

The Carlton Draught WAFL State squad has been narrowed down to 27 players ahead of this Saturday's interstate clash with the VFL at North Port Oval in Melbourne.

The game starts at 12.10pm WA time and will be broadcast live on Channel 7.

The squad of 27 includes 18 with previous State Game experience and 14 who have been AFL-listed, including Leroy Jetta who played 93 games for Essendon.

Aaron Black (West Perth) and Jye Bolton (Claremont) are Sandover Medallists and Kyle Anderson (East Perth), Ryan Cook (South Fremantle) and Kyal Horsley (Subiaco), are all WAFL club captains.

West Perth Football Club stalwart Andrew Strijk (198 games) is set to play his sixth State game.

WA and Victoria have played 23 times in Melbourne since the first clash in 1904, with WA yet to claim a win. The most recent clash saw Victoria win by 119-points 10 years ago.

The last game between the two States was played in WA in 2013 at Northam, with WA claiming its first win over Victoria in 22 years after kicking 10 goals to three in the second half to run out 17.16 (118) to 15.11 (101) winners.

Since then, a state football resurgence has seen WA win interstate matches against the NEAFL, South Australia and Tasmania to make it four consecutive State Game victories.

WA coach Michael Broadbridge, who broke one West Australian football drought when he was part of the historic 1985 Teal Cup team that won the State’s first national under-18s title, said he was looking forward to the chance of creating another piece of WA football history.

“We are all really committed and looking forward to the challenge,” he said.

“We’re obviously expecting a certain style of play from the VFL on that ground so we’ve taken the approach of selecting players in the roles we’re likely to need,” Broadbridge said.

“We’ve been out watching players at the WAFL each week and all of the senior coaches have been very supportive and given us great feedback on which players are in form in the roles we need and who is most worthy of consideration.

“Overall, with the size of the ground at North Port, the opposition, and the chance it could be a bit slippery, means we’ve selected players with bigger bodies who are strong over the ball and strong at the contest, which we’ll look to compliment with a bit of flair.

“We’ve also looked at players who we think can adapt well, have some experience playing in the conditions against similar opposition and are mentally strong.”

Broadbridge will be supported by assistant coaches Paul Johnson, Steve Malaxos, Clay McLernon and Garry Moss, who provide a blend of youth and experience.

“I’ve tried to get a balanced panel with good pedigree and strong ambition,” he said.

“Paul Johnson has been one of the best WAFL and State players in recent years, Garry Moss is a former AFL and WAFL player looking to enhance his coaching credentials, Clay McLernon is a WAFL Premiership player doing a fantastic job with the East Fremantle Colts and Steve Malaxos really balances it out well with his experience as a WAFL coach and as a player at State level.

“Overall, we believe we have put together a really strong group of players and coaches for this contest.”

 

WA TEAM LIST

No	Surname	Name	DOB	Ht	Wt	Club	Games
1	Ugle	Kirk	06-05-92	173	72	Swan Districts	74
2	Nelson	Shane	11-05-93	176	73	West Perth	104
3	Black	Aaron	25-12-92	180	83	West Perth	138
4	Schloithe	Haiden	16-06-93	184	83	South Fremantle	95
5	Maginness	William	13-01-95	184	82	East Perth	27
6	Kitchin	Leigh	08-09-90	179	82	Subiaco	52
7	Bradshaw	Jack	30-09-92	180	74	Claremont	98
8	Kelly	Tim	26-07-94	182	82	South Fremantle	79
9	Cook	Ryan	16-02-88	188	90	South Fremantle	124
10	Horsley	Kyal	02-09-87	183	85	Subiaco	151
11	Bolton	Jye	03-03-92	183	80	Claremont	29
12	Manning	Kody	28-09-91	184	84	West Perth	91
13	Meadows	Luke	16-11-94	185	88	West Perth	56
14	Jetta	Leroy	06-07-88	178	85	Peel	36
15	Strijk	Andrew	18-10-87	183	84	West Perth	198
16	Marsh	Jonathon	17-10-95	190	89	East Fremantle	8
17	Delahunty	Lachlan	26-10-90	194	91	Subiaco	50
18	Adamson	Corey	23-02-92	185	85	Subiaco	35
19	Riggio	Matt	14-03-88	188	92	Swan Districts	148
20	Wheeler	Clancy	28-03-88	194	95	Subiaco	127
21	Lockyer	Jordan	15-06-93	192	90	Subiaco	49
22	Ames	Tallan	18-10-83	193	88	Swan Districts	253
23	Anderson	Kyle	07-06-90	191	91	East Perth	95
24	Saunders	Ben	25-12-91	190	80	South Fremantle	91
25	Johnson	Blaine	28-07-95	187	87	South Fremantle	31
26	Andrews	Mitchell	05-12-86	196	92	Claremont	125
28	Notte	Tony	15-04-90	194	80	Swan Districts	187

WA PROFILES

1. KIRK UGLE

Small defender is back to his best form in 2017 doing some terrific jobs on opposition small forwards along with being creative with his run and drive with left-boot. Now played 74 WAFL games, spent a year with Collingwood and has previously played one State game for WA.

2. SHANE NELSON

Having yet another remarkable season in the midfield for West Perth averaging 32.4 disposals a game. Has been remarkably consistent over a 104-game career now averaging 29.3 touches. Is a dual fairest and best winner and deserves to earn a third state jumper.

3. AARON BLACK

Continues to be remarkably consistent with his work rate, ability to run all day and rack up possessions whether playing on the wing or as an inside midfielder. Despite being only 24, is a 138-game player, Sandover Medallist, fairest and best winner and set for a fourth time playing for WA.

4. HAIDEN SCHLOITHE

Had a brilliant 2014 season in his first year off Fremantle's list before injury hindered him the past two years. He is back to his best in 2017 in the midfield where he's a prolific ball winner, goal kicker, good user and can be a physical presence. Set for his second appearance representing WA.

5. WILL MAGINNESS

The former Eagle had his AFL career cut short through injury but East Perth showed faith in him and he is repaying them this season both at half-forward and through the midfield. Showing quality averaging 21.2 touches a game and kicking 12 goals.

6. LEIGH KITCHIN

Former Frankston VFL midfielder will know the ground well as he continues to be an outstanding recruit for Subiaco. Is in his third WAFL season, will play for WA for a third time already, has taken part in two grand finals the past two years and continues to be a prolific inside midfielder.

7. JACK BRADSHAW

The small forward is always a threat and capable of kicking a bag. Has booted 185 goals in his 99-game career with Claremont and will make his State debut for WA if selected in the final line-up.

After a 93-game AFL career with Essendon, the dynamic small forward is having a strong start to 2017 with Peel Thunder. He has kicked 23 goals including a bag of five, and two hauls of four.

8. TIM KELLY

Made his State debut last year against Tasmania and has taken his game to another level in 2017. Is unstoppable in and around the contest winning the hard ball, is a clearance machine but also has the pace to break away from the pack. Averaging 28.9 disposals a game this season.

9. RYAN COOK

Has had a remarkable career since joining South Fremantle in 2011 after being listed with Collingwood. Is the Bulldogs' longest-serving captain and a 124-game WAFL player, dual fairest and best winner and is set to play his sixth state game in seven WAFL seasons.

10. KYAL HORSLEY

Inspirational Subiaco captain recently brought up his 150th game in a career that has seen him play in six grand finals for three premierships including two as captain. Is a dual fairest and best winner, played for WA twice and spent two years with Gold Coast. One of the most damaging players in the WAFL.

11. JYE BOLTON

Had a brilliant 2016 with Claremont after crossing from the VFL. Took all before him winning last year's State game Simpson Medal, the Sandover Medal and his club's fairest and best award. A tireless worker who racks up big midfield numbers. His VFL experience will be crucial to the WAFL's hopes.

12. KODY MANNING

An attacking player well known for imposing himself on the contest and the opposition. He also is a terrific runner and has good kicking skills. Will be an important player for the WAFL in what will be his second appearance for his State.

13. LUKE MEADOWS

Had a breakout season with West Perth in 2016 as an attacking half-back. Played for WA and was on the radar of AFL clubs. Has now gone into the middle in 2017 as a big-bodied midfielder with great kicking skills. Has worked a treat with him averaging 25.4 disposals and kicking six goals.

14. LEROY JETTA

After a 93-game AFL career with Essendon, the dynamic small forward is having a strong start to 2017 with Peel Thunder. He has kicked 23 goals including a bag of five, and two hauls of four.

15. ANDREW STRIJK

The 198-game veteran remains one of the best and most damaging players in the league on his powerful right foot. Can be equally effective playing as an attacking running defender or dangerous half-forward. Kicked career-best five goals last weekend. Will be his sixth time representing WA.

16. JONATHON MARSH

Has returned to East Fremantle from a stint at Collingwood and is filling a role as a big-bodied midfielder. Has been doing the job racking up 29.1 possessions a game. His big body and Victorian experience will be important in State game.

17. LACHLAN DELAHUNTY

Continued to play very well as a makeshift ruckman for Subiaco, is outstanding at ground level and a big factor in the Lions reaching the grand final the past three years. Knows the VFL well and will represent the WAFL for the second time.

18. COREY ADAMSON

The former baseballer developed well in two years on West Coast's list before joining Subiaco in 2017. After a slow start through injury, is settling in nicely and with his hardness and ball-winning ability, will be perfectly suited to the small confines of North Port Oval.

19. MATT RIGGIO

Been an outstanding servant for Swan Districts since arriving from North Melbourne in 2010. Is a premiership player, fairest and best winner and remains a prolific ball winner averaging 23 touches a game this season. Big body perfectly suited to what will be his second State game appearance.

20. CLANCY WHEELER

The versatile big man continues to be outstanding in whatever role he's asked to play. Spends most of his time at centre half-back but can be more than effective with stints in the ruck. A dual premiership, 127-game player now who has previously played twice for WA.

21. JORDAN LOCKYER

One of the more unheralded members of a dominant Subiaco outfit but continues to play a tremendous role at centre half-back both defensively, shutting down some quality opponents, but also taking intercept marks and setting up play. Played in last two grand finals after leaving Sydney.

22. TALLAN AMES

The evergreen Swan Districts champion celebrated his 250th game earlier this season and is now preparing to represent the WAFL for a fifth time and first since suffering a punctured lung in 2014. Remains one of the best and most effective key defenders in the competition.

23. KYLE ANDERSON

The East Perth co-captain has struggled through injury to have only played 96 games since making his debut in 2009. When on the field there has been no better lockdown defender in the competition. Rarely beaten in one-on-one contests and a terrific leader to boot ahead of his state debut.

24. BEN SAUNDERS

Is the perennial leading goalkicker in the WAFL since joining South Fremantle from Claremont in 2012. Has kicked 244 goals in 86 games for the Bulldogs and won three Bernie Naylor Medals. Has kicked five goals in each of his previous two games representing WA.

25. BLAINE JOHNSON

Dangerous forward has become an important part of South Fremantle's resurgence the past 18 months since returning from Carlton. Can take a good mark and kick well, but it's his tackling pressure and ability to do the mercurial that make him a standout. Has kicked 20 goals this season.

26. MITCHELL ANDREWS

The 30-year-old is in career-best form continuing to do a power of work in the ruck for Claremont. Originally came to West Perth from Queensland in 2009 but has made his mark with the Tigers playing in two premierships. State debut now to come after 125 WAFL appearances.

27. TONY NOTTE

Former West Coast key position player has carved out an outstanding career. Perhaps has played his best football at centre half-back where he reads the play tremendously well. Can also go forward to take a mark and kick goals, and play in the ruck. Now a 187-game player who has played three times previously for WA.

VICTORIA PROFILES

1. MICHAEL SODOMACO

25-year-old smaller defender in his third season as Werribee captain. Capable of locking down on the opposition’s most dangerous forwards.

2. SAM SWITKOWSKI

20-year-old smaller forward who loves to tackle. Enjoyed a break-out season in 2016 after graduating from the Box Hill Hawks’ Development League team.

3. NICK RIPPON

23-year-old brave and versatile midfielder who is consistently in North Ballarat’s best players. Won the J.J. Liston Trophy in 2015.

4. TOM O’SULLIVAN

26-year-old reliable Port Melbourne midfielder who is particularly prolific by hand. Has recorded the most handballs in the VFL in 2017.

5. NICK HIND

22-year-old outside midfielder who has risen rapidly after joining Essendon’s list mid-2016. Averaging 22 disposals per game in 2017.

6. MICHAEL GIBBONS

22-year-old highly decorated inside midfielder at Williamstown. Won the 2016 Frank Johnson Medal as the VFL’s best player in the state game.

7. ANDREW HOOPER

26-year-old North Ballarat smaller forward who has kicked over 130 VFL goals. Seven-game AFL player with the Western Bulldogs from 2010-12.

8. NICK JAMIESON

25-year-old forward/midfielder with strong goal sense. Formed a key part of Footscray’s 2016 VFL premiership triumph.

9. TOM WILSON

25-year-old rugged inside midfielder in his second year as Northern Blues captain. Won his second club best-and-fairest award in 2016.

10. LEIGH MASTERS

24-year-old mobile tall forward with strong goal sense. 2015 Williamstown premiership player who celebrated his 100th senior VFL game earlier in 2017.

11. MATT HANSON

22-year-old tough inside midfielder known for his consistency. Dual Werribee best-and-fairest winner in 2015 and 2016.

12. ELI TEMPLETON

21-year-old running midfielder who is leading the VFL for total disposals in his first season at Port Melbourne. 14-game AFL player at St Kilda from 2014-16.

13. TOM ATKINS

21-year-old tough inside midfielder who loves to tackle. Established himself at VFL level in 2016, winning Geelong’s best-and-fairest award.

14. BAYLEY FRITSCH

20-year-old medium forward who had played only three VFL matches before 2017. Exciting player averaging two goals per game for the Casey Demons this year.

15. SAM DARLEY

24-year-old skilful rebounding defender in his second season as Richmond captain. 20-game AFL player for GWS and the Western Bulldogs from 2012-15.

16. BRETT BEWLEY

22-year-old outside midfielder who has broken out over the past two seasons for Williamstown. Averaging 24 disposals per game in 2017.

17. BRODY MIHOCEK

24-year-old key-position player capable of playing forward but recently at home in defence. Port Melbourne best-and-fairest winner in 2016.

18. JOSH NEWMAN

22-year-old rebounding defender who crossed to Williamstown this year from Frankston, where he won a best-and-fairest in 2016. Brother of Sydney’s Nic Newman.

19. JORDAN KELLY

23-year-old Collingwood rebounding defender who spent time on AFL lists at Hawthorn and the Western Bulldogs. Approaching 100 senior VFL games in 2017.

20. JAMES FERRY

22-year-old key defender who overcame injuries at under-age level to establish himself in Essendon’s defence over the last three seasons.

22. ANDREW MOORE

25-year-old rugged inside midfielder in his first season at the Box Hill Hawks. 60-game AFL player with Port Adelaide and Richmond from 2010-16.

23. JORDAN LISLE

26-year-old Port Melbourne key forward who jointly won the ‘Frosty’ Miller Medal in 2015. 23-game AFL player with Hawthorn and Brisbane from 2009-14.

25. CAM O’SHEA

24-year-old rebounding defender in his first season at the Northern Blues. 81-game AFL player for Port Adelaide from 2011-16.

26. ALEX BOYSE

23-year-old mobile tall forward who played only three VFL matches before 2017. Averaging two goals per game for Essendon this year.

28. CHRIS JONES

22-year-old promising tall forward who is starting to establish himself in the Box Hill Hawks’ senior team. Has kicked 25 goals in 18 VFL games.

29. TOM GOODWIN

25-year-old ruckman who uses his 201cm frame to impose himself on opponents. In his first season as Coburg captain.

30. BRODIE MURDOCH

23-year-old Port Melbourne wingman with the ability to run and kick long. 22-game AFL player at St Kilda from 2013-16.