WA under-18s go down to WAFL 21s in first hit-out ahead of national champsMonday, May 19, 2025 - 9:13 AM - by Jordan McArdle

Western Australia’s under-18s had their first hit-out ahead of their AFL National U18 Championship opener against Vic Country next month, going down to a strong WAFL Under-21s outfit at Fremantle Community Bank Oval on Saturday.

West Perth midfielder and Jack Clarke medallist Kane Bevan produced a best-on-ground performance for the 21s to showcase his talents in front of recruiters less than a fortnight out from the AFL Mid-Season Draft.

Bevan, one of 11 players with senior experience for the 21s side, had 30-plus possessions and 10-plus clearances to go with two goals in a standout display.

Claremont forward Sam Van Rooyen also impressed for the victors with a game-high five goals, while South Fremantle goalsneak Chase Bourne chipped in with three.

First-round draft prospect and South Freo on-baller Fred Rodriguez was the best of the undermanned under-18s, who were missing a host of key players including Toby Whan, Ryda Luke, Koby Evans and Will York.

Rodriguez found plenty of the footy in the engine-room and used it with it trademark class by foot going forward.

Exciting Subiaco and West Coast Next Generation Academy small forward Wes Walley had a few nice moments including a chase-down tackle and goal in the opening term, while West Coast father-son prospect Charlie Banfield (Claremont) and bottom-ager Koby LeCras of West Perth showed promise.

WA’s next trial match is against West Perth at HIF Health Insurance Oval on Saturday morning.

The Black Swans' first game of the national carnival is against Vic Country in Perth on Saturday 7 June.