WESTERN Australia Football Commission (WAFC) released the finalised lists of the initial Summer squads for both the boys and girls programs. The players featured include a host of talents that featured at the 2023 AFL/W Under 18 and Under 16 Championships.

The squads feature 38 boys and 32 girls who were selected to partake, ranging from over-age players to bottom-age talents next season. The squads will train together three times a week starting from November 27 and running until February where preseason training for the WAFL and WAFL Women’s ramps up.

West Australian Football Commission Executive Manager – Football Operations, Scott Baker said it was an exciting time for the players selected in the two squads and he highlighted the program’s extended duration, as a crucial aspect.

“The longer timeline will enable more extensive training and place a strong emphasis on player development and education, all geared towards preparing these players for the 2024 WAFL season and National Championships,” Baker said via the WAFL site.

Baker said it was equally imperative to dedicate resources in the space to match those states to the east and best prepare the players for representative duties.

“We need to keep pace with these states and expedite the development of the most talented young players in Western Australia; it’s imperative we enhance their training programs,” he said. “The belief is that having the best young athletes training together for an extended period, under the guidance of full-time coaches, will significantly elevate the standards and the development of these young players.”

Among the top boys to keep an eye on in 2024 are the likes of Subiaco small forward Malakai Champion, Peel Thunder defender Bo Allan, Claremont outside talent Austin van der Struyf and West Perth ruck Kayle Gerreyn who impressed as an overager at the Under 16s Championships this year.

The West Australian girls have some serious top-end talent as well, highlighted by East Fremantle speedster Zippy Fish, South Fremantle athletic tall Molly O’Hehir and Bulldogs teammate, small forward Noa McNaughton. Claremont utility Claudia Wright will also enjoy a strong return having only come back from injury in August.

WA Boys Preseason Program Squad

Girls Summer Program Squad