West Australian football star Tom Barrass has made a powerful declaration that the Sandgropers will approach next year's State of Origin clash with Victoria with complete seriousness and unwavering commitment.
Historic Return After 26 Years
The AFL confirmed in September that interstate football would make its triumphant return in February 2025, marking the first such contest since 1999. The long-standing rivalry between Western Australia and Victoria will reignite before what's anticipated to be a sellout crowd at Optus Stadium on February 14.
Barrass, who recently moved from West Coast to Hawthorn, emphasised that representing WA should be treated as an honour and privilege that players won't take lightly. He's among several WA superstars already confirmed for the match, joining an impressive lineup including Carlton's Patrick Cripps, Fremantle's Shai Bolton, Sydney's Chad Warner, and Western Bulldogs' Aaron Naughton.
Barrass's Passionate Pledge
Despite the game's placement in the pre-season schedule raising questions about player commitment, Barrass left no doubt about his intentions. Speaking on his podcast Pass The Aux, the key defender expressed strong confidence in WA's chances if they can field their best team.
"I think that if we can get our best team together and we can really leverage that spirit of being a West Australian... I think we can win," Barrass stated emphatically.
He acknowledged that Victorian players would likely share similar motivation, noting that "it's bragging rights, it's a matter of pride" for both states. Barrass described himself as a deeply patriotic West Australian who feels tremendous pride in representing his home state.
Multi-Year Vision for State of Origin
The return of State of Origin comes through collaboration between the AFL, WA State Government, and Tourism WA. Barrass expressed delight that persistent public demand for the concept's revival had finally been answered.
"The people have been calling out for it for a decade and I'm so stoked to see it back," he said, expressing hope for a multi-year agreement that would continue the tradition beyond the initial match.
Barrass argued that the pre-season timing made perfect sense, noting that "you play a number of games before the season anyway, so why not utilise those games for the benefit of everyone to watch." He believes a spectacular showing at a packed Optus Stadium could establish the event as a long-term fixture.
When asked about potential teammates he's most excited to play alongside, Barrass found it difficult to name just one but highlighted the special opportunity to potentially share the field with close friend Darcy Cameron, a Collingwood best and fairest winner he came through Claremont's junior system with.
"That would just be so special for me," Barrass said of the prospect. He also mentioned previous experience playing with Patrick Cripps in State 18's and expressed admiration for other West Australian talents like Shai Bolton and Liam Baker whom he's watched from afar while they represented other clubs.
