Bunbury local Ella Smith will get her wings this Friday in West Coast’s round six clash against Hawthorn at Skybus Stadium in Frankston.

Coming into the squad last season as injury cover, Smith was picked up as a priority signing at the start of season seven to boost the depth in the Eagles’ midfield.

It followed a dream year in 2021, when she captained Claremont in the WAFLW competition and led her team to the finals, before claiming the Dhara Kerr Medal as League best and fairest.

After strong contributions at training, Smith adds to the Eagles’ options through the midfield and forward line with her versatility allowing her to play multiple positions.

One key focus coming away from last week’s RAC Derby was the Eagles’ ability to score when dominating the game and Smith provides another attacking option after kicking 11 goals for Claremont last season.

Defender Beth Schilling will also return to the side after missing the last two rounds with an ankle injury.

After being named in the team to face the Giants, Schilling tweaked her ankle in the captain’s run and did not travel to Sydney.

The last time she pulled on the blue and gold was back in round two, when she laid four tackles against the Gold Coast Suns at Metricon Stadium. 

Isabella Simmons and Imahra Cameron have been omitted and will join yet-to-debut Zoe Wakfer and Hayley Bullas on the emergency list.