Emerging West Coast Eagles forward-ruck Archer Reid will make his highly anticipated AFL debut in the blue and gold against Gold Coast on Sunday at Optus Stadium.

The 19-year-old had an impressive pre-season, with his work ethic and development often publicly praised by his teammates and coaches.

“I’m excited, I’m very excited, it should be a good game,” Reid said following his debut announcement.

“Oscar Allen broke the news, we were out on the ground and all the boys got around me, it was very cool.”

Reid was drafted from Gippsland Power via pick No.30 in 2023.

The 203cm big man becomes the fifth member of this draft class to debut for West Coast, following Harley Reid, Loch Rawlinson, Harvey Johnston and Clay Hall last year.

Reid booted 17 goals from 15 WAFL Eagles appearances in 2024 and has proved himself as a strong marking target up forward who can pinch-hit in the ruck.

“My main focus points this pre-season has been putting on some size and getting fitter,” Reid said.

“Last year I was a pretty skinny kid and wasn’t really up to the standard I wanted to be at, but this year I really focused on those points and I think I’ve reached those goals.”

The Inverloch product will get the chance to host his family at Optus Stadium this weekend, and while his fellow AFL footballer brother Zach (Essendon) will likely be absent, Reid is excited to see his family and friends. 

“Mum and dad will get an invite, my brother Kyle will too,” Reid said.

“I’m not sure if Zach will be able to come because he will be playing footy.”