The Perth Demons have made a significant addition to their playing list ahead of the 2026 WAFL season, securing the signature of Victorian ruckman Zac Harding. The promising young talent has recently concluded a valuable training stint with AFL club Fremantle Dockers, providing him with elite-level experience that he is expected to bring to the Demons' lineup.
Strategic Signing for Perth's WAFL Campaign
This acquisition represents a strategic move by the Perth Demons as they aim to strengthen their squad for the upcoming WAFL competition. Zac Harding, originally from Victoria's country football system, has demonstrated considerable potential as a ruckman, a position that is crucial for controlling the midfield and providing first-use of the football to onballers.
From Fremantle Training to WAFL Opportunity
Harding's recent training period with the Fremantle Dockers has given him exposure to professional AFL standards, including advanced coaching techniques, fitness regimes, and tactical insights. This experience at the elite level is anticipated to accelerate his development and make him an immediate asset for the Perth Demons when the WAFL season commences.
The transition from training with an AFL club to playing in the WAFL competition provides Harding with an excellent platform to showcase his skills and potentially earn further opportunities at higher levels of the sport. For the Perth Demons, securing a player with recent AFL club exposure represents a coup that could enhance their competitiveness in the 2026 season.
Strengthening Perth's Ruck Division
Ruckmen play a pivotal role in Australian rules football, contesting centre bounces and around-the-ground stoppages to give their midfielders the best possible chance to win possession. By adding Zac Harding to their roster, the Perth Demons have addressed a key area of their team structure with a player who has been developing under professional guidance.
The signing demonstrates Perth's commitment to building a competitive squad capable of challenging for WAFL honours. With Harding's combination of Victorian country football background and recent Fremantle training experience, the Demons have acquired a player with diverse football education that could prove valuable throughout the season.
As the 2026 WAFL season approaches, all eyes will be on how Zac Harding integrates into the Perth Demons lineup and whether his Fremantle training experience translates into on-field success for his new club.
