Free agency recruit Jack Graham says he is excited by the fresh challenge at West Coast as the club embarks on a new era under senior coach Andrew McQualter.

Graham’s move west as an unrestricted free agent from Richmond was confirmed on Tuesday, with the 26-year-old joining the Eagles on a four-year contract.

The South Australian toured the Mineral Resources Park facility last Wednesday with his partner Jordan and took the weekend to decide he wanted to continue his 131-game career out west.

“It’s been a big decision. Obviously eight years in Melbourne and what me and my partner Jordy have made over there,” Graham said.  

“But we just thought something new, new challenge, new chapter and personally that’s what I think I need and that will be the best for my football going forward is a new fresh start.

“After coming over last week and meeting a few of the fellas and doing the tour with ‘Mini’ (McQualter) it was something that we really loved.

“The facility was amazing and we just thought this is what we need. We couldn’t be happier to be heading west.”

McQualter worked alongside Graham, a dual premiership player, during the Tigers’ recent golden era and they formed a strong bond.

“I had ‘Mini’ for seven years at Richmond and he was my midfield coach. I love the way he goes about it and I always knew one day he was going to be a head coach,” Graham said.

“It just worked out that he got the head coaching role over in the west as well, so it’s all come together at the right time.”

Graham, or ‘Fridge’ as he is known, has another major life milestone on the horizon when he gets married next weekend.

After that, he will get packing for the move to Perth in readiness for pre-season training with his new teammates.

“Really excited by the list and the younger boys,” Graham said.

“Can’t wait to get to work with all the boys, meet them all and earn their respect and show that I’m hardworking, but just to get to know the boys on and off the field is something I can’t wait to do.”