When Ethan Hansen suits up in the blue and gold this weekend, he will become the first player to play 50 games in the WAFL Eagles colours.

Hansen joined the Eagles ahead of the 2021 season, having previously been involved with the Perth Demons.

The 23-year-old played 14 games in his first season at West Coast and was one of only a handful of players who remained with the team in 2022.

Hansen, who was the only WAFL Eagle to play every game in the 2022 season, and missed just one game in 2023, is known for his smart decision making, excellent ball handling, pace and aggression around the contest.

WAFL Eagles senior coach Kyal Horsley said he’s proud to see Hansen reach this milestone at West Coast.

“He’s been through a lot of tough times at the club, but he’s persevered,” Horsley said.

“Ethan is a very skilful player, he defends really well and gives us a lot of drive from the half-back line.

“I’m really proud of him, proud of his perseverance, he’s a really good young man and he deserves to get to 50 games at the club, and it’s great that he’s the first to do it for West Coast.”

The WAFL Eagles kick off their 2024 campaign on Saturday against Swan Districts at Steel Blue Oval, bouncedown at 2:30pm.