Emerging West Australian football talent Wes Walley has his sights firmly set on the 2025 AFL Draft after getting an invaluable taste of life at the West Coast Eagles through the club's Next Generation Academy.
A Taste of the Big League
The promising young defender spent time training with West Coast's AFL squad earlier this year, an experience he describes as crucial for his development. Walley joined the Eagles for several sessions during the pre-season, working alongside established stars and learning the professional standards required at the highest level.
"It was awesome to get down there and train with the boys," Walley revealed. "Just being around the club and seeing how they go about it was a great experience." The exposure to AFL environment gave him clear insights into the dedication and work ethic needed to succeed in professional football.
Overcoming Shoulder Setback
Walley's draft preparation hit a temporary obstacle when he suffered a shoulder injury that required surgery. The young defender underwent a reconstruction procedure that has kept him on the sidelines for much of the current season.
The injury occurred earlier this year, forcing him to miss significant playing time during crucial development phases. However, Walley maintains a positive outlook on his recovery timeline and future prospects. "I'm just rehabbing at the moment and taking it week by week," he explained regarding his shoulder rehabilitation process.
Medical staff and club officials are taking a cautious approach to his return, ensuring he makes a full recovery before returning to competitive action. The extended recovery period has given Walley time to focus on other aspects of his game and physical development.
Looking Toward 2025 AFL Draft
Despite the injury interruption, Walley remains firmly in West Coast's future plans as part of their NGA program. The Eagles have the opportunity to pre-list NGA prospects before the national draft if certain conditions are met, giving them priority access to local talent like Walley.
The 2025 AFL Draft represents Walley's primary target for making his professional ambitions a reality. His time training with the Eagles has only strengthened his determination to reach the highest level of Australian rules football.
"It definitely makes you hungry for more," Walley said of his experience with West Coast. "You get a taste of it and you want to be there full-time." His combination of defensive prowess and athletic ability makes him an intriguing prospect for the Eagles as they continue to rebuild their list.
As he continues his rehabilitation, Walley remains focused on returning to peak condition and demonstrating his capabilities to AFL recruiters. The coming months will be crucial as he works toward being fully fit for the 2025 draft campaign, where he hopes to join the growing contingent of West Australian talent at West Coast Eagles.
