Chasing The Dream: The AFL Draft haul that could change it all for West Coast
They talked the beach and moving to Perth – but the embrace between Harley Reid and West Coast’s newest stars on draft night signifies so much more. Go behind the scenes to find out why.
West Coast fans haven’t had a lot to get excited about in recent years but that might all be about to change.
And when the club does finally return to finals action, the 2025 AFL Draft could be remembered as the catalyst.
CODE Sports exclusive documentary ‘Chasing The Dream’ was front and centre on draft night as Willem Duursma (pick 1) and Cooper Duff-Tytler (pick 4) joined the Eagles – and captured the moment they met superstar teammate Harley Reid.
In episode 3 of the series, Reid was seen welcoming Duff-Tytler to the Eagles, with an embrace and a firm handshake making it “official.”
GO BEHIND THE SCENES OF DRAFT NIGHT IN EPISODE 3 BELOW
The 201cm ruck is looking to the future of the Eagles and is optimistic to create synergy with pure midfielder Reid.
“Obviously (I’ve) got to try and get a game next year and if I get a bit of ruck time, I’ll be trying to hit it to Harley,” Duff-Tytler said.
Reid also had a couple of commendations for the youngster.
“We’re keen to have you… you’ll love it,” Reid said.
“All the boys are super excited to have you, mate and keen to get to work…we need a big key ruckman.”
Victorian born Duff-Tytler was also thrilled to be heading west with No.1 pick Duursma, with the pair already holding a close bond.
“To be able to get over there with Willem, I’m pumped,” Duff-Tytler said.
“Obviously we are already mates and I think we will become way closer at the journey goes on.
“Getting to share it with someone like Duurs is so special.”
Duff-Tytler said he feels “grateful” to the Eagles and was quick to “loving the blue and gold”.
“The list at the Eagles is so exciting… Willem now and Harley over there, Reuben Ginbey, they’ve got a bunch of young stars,” Duff-Tytler said.
“It’s an unbelievable opportunity to get to go over there at this point where obviously they did have a bit of a dry season but hopefully get to try and rebuild the club with that young list that they’ve got... I think it’s an amazing opportunity.
“For the Eagles to pick me, I couldn’t have been happier and absolutely over the moon.”
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Originally published as Chasing The Dream: The AFL Draft haul that could change it all for West Coast
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