Players uncertain about reserve AFL teams

By Johannah Glisenti, 2 April, 2011

The push by WA’s two AFL teams to have reserve teams compete in the WAFL has sparked mixed opinions among players.

WAFL players are certain that West Coast and Fremantle reserve teams in the State league would benefit the AFL rookies but are not convinced the move will benefit the competition.

Swan Districts defender Luke Bonnett, acknowledged the advantage that AFL listed players had over those playing in the State league.

“How are part time, semi-professional WAFL players, who train two to three times a week going to cope with playing against a team of fulltime, professional footballers who are bigger, stronger, faster and have nothing but footy to think about?,” he said.

“ Most of these boys have the financial support from their AFL club to focus solely on the game.

“They have the opportunity and time to train up to six times week together.

“ Their strength as individuals, as well as a team will be impossible for our boys to match,” Bonnett said.

However Claremont defender and ex-Eagle Rookie James Thomson, believes the move would be of great benefit to developing players in the AFL.

“Playing week to week for one team will allow the boys to play a consistent game style and plan, rather than having to alternate between that of their AFL and WAFL club, he said.

“When the players are then listed in an AFL game, they will be better equipped to that style of play, which will not only strengthen the role of that player within the team, but also the team as a whole,” Thompson said.

What the Eagles and Dockers are seeking through introducing reserve teams is an opportunity to create the best possible development model for their young players.

The decision however, will ultimately be left up to the nine WAFL teams, with club presidents expected to hold a unanimous vote to support or oppose any in-principal expansion of the competition.