New recruits Tom Gross, Sandy Brock and Hamish Davis will make their West Coast Eagles debuts on Sunday against Greater Western Sydney.
Emerging midfielder Gross has impressed since his arrival to the club, with his speed, versatility and sharp competitive edge on display throughout the pre-season.
The 18-year-old Oakleigh Chargers product has delivered some outstanding performances in the WAFL Eagles’ practice matches to secure a debut.
“It feels unreal, I’m stoked and can’t wait,” Gross said.
“Mini broke the news to me which was good, after Sandy’s announcement too, super excited for him too and can’t wait to debut alongside him.
“I’ve loved being here in Perth, I’ve just put my head down and bum up and got to work and now got my opportunity which is great.
“I called my mum just then which was pretty cool, she was emotional, it’s her birthday too, but she’ll be coming over and I can’t wait to see her.”
The Eagles’ newest recruit Brock joined the club in November as a Supplemental Selection Period train-on and was elevated to a rookie contract in February.
Hailing from Palmerston, Brock spent 2021 playing for Peel Thunder in the WAFL, before joining Gold Coast in 2024, playing 18 games in the VFL.
Standing at 198cm, the 22-year-old has shown his strong athletic profile and intercepting ability in the WAFL Eagles’ pre-season games and will bolster the tall defender stocks for Sunday’s battle with the Giants.
“It feels amazing, it’s obviously been a big journey to get here, but I just can’t wait to play,” Brock said.
“Coming through as an SSP was a bit of a hurdle, but I worked hard, and everyone made me feel like I was part of the team as soon as I arrived.
“I haven’t had a chance to call anyone yet but it will be my mum, she’s been my biggest supporter my whole life and I can’t wait to give her news.”
Perth local Davis was drafted from Claremont and the wingman is known for his power, endurance and high work rate.
The 18-year-old starred for Claremont’s Colts team in 2024, earning a callup to the senior side for seven matches, including a superb four-goal, 21-disposal effort in the elimination final against East Fremantle.
“It’s amazing, it’s a bit of whirlwind after getting drafted, but I’ve been feeling more and more comfortable every day,” Davis said.
“This will be right up there with the best day of my life, I’m just so happy.”
