SOUTH Fremantle midfielder Fred Rodriguez made his WAFL League debut over the weekend, following through from a strong preseason to contribute to the Bulldogs’ 13-point win over Perth. He earned his maiden senior berth alongside 2024 West Australian MVP and former Colts teammate, Jaxon Artemis.

>> Scouting Notes: 2025 WAFL Colts – Round 1

Usually a prolific on-baller with exceptional running power and skills on both sides of his body, Rodriguez spent more time forward of centre up the grades. Following two goals in his second scratch match for South Fremantle’s ones, he booted a single major from six disposals and three marks.

Two more West Australian top-agers made their senior debuts in Round 1. Diminutive midfielder Will York raised eyebrows when he was named to start on-ball in a Peel Thunder side which featured Hayden Young and Sean Darcy. He impressed with 17 disposals and five inside 50s in a draw with Claremont.

Subiaco also blooded a youngster in Hudson Walker. The 179cm talent, who featured in all three of the Lions’ preseason matches, collected 11 disposals, three marks and three tackles as his side went down by 15 points to East Perth at Sullivan Logistics Stadium.

Over in South Australia, leading prospect Dyson Sharp continues to ply his trade at League level for Central District. Having largely cut his teeth as a high forward thus far, he was afforded more midfield exposure this week with positive results, yielding 17 disposals and three clearances.

Sharp’s Bulldogs were defeated by Glenelg, but the youngster made strides on his 10-disposal outing in Round 1. The first AFL Academy showcase will be played on Sunday April 13, meaning Sharp and Rodriguez may well come together to play in the same midfield against Richmond VFL.

Speaking of academies, the annual Academy Series got underway over the weekend, which saw a dearth of Northern talent in the VFL. Still, over-age Swans graduate Thomas Hitchens was handed a state league debut, taking four marks among his nine touches in a 49-point loss to North Melbourne.

Sandringham Dragons pair Charlie Rozenes and Sam Buck featured for the Zebras in a 108-point drubbing at the hands of Greater Western Sydney. The former earned a call-up after his strong showing in Round 1 of the Coates Talent League, where he had 22 disposals and five inside 50s in a lively display.

The speed forward was a touch more quiet amongst senior opposition, while Buck – who was named for the Dragons this week – booted a goal and took three marks. Both players were overlooked for Vic Metro selection as top-agers last year, but continue to develop.

More 2006-born talent continues to shine in the VFL. Western Jets product Massimo Raso is on the radar after a three-goal haul in Richmond’s win over Brisbane. Meanwhile, Damon Hollow is building after nabbing a couple of points from nine touches as Williamstown beat Frankston.