The West Coast Eagles have been dealt a challenging draw punctuated by blockbuster matches throughout the 2020 season.
Travel will again be a major test as the Perth-based side flies twice to Queensland and once to Tasmania.
“Fixtures are always tough and we often don’t get what we request, but we make the case to the AFL of the extreme challenges of being based in Perth, travelling huge distances each season and having to return late at night or very early in the morning,” Chief Executive Trevor Nisbett said.
In 10 away trips, the Eagles will travel approximately 71,670 kilometres and will rely on the processes and initiatives developed by the club’s football department and administration to achieve maximum preparation for high performance.
“Our sports science team, our strength and conditioning staff and our coaches are highly professional in their approach to travel, match day and recovery,” Nisbett said.
The Eagles’ Melbourne-based fans will have the chance to watch the Eagles play on six occasions in Victoria, including a prime time Friday night matchup against Geelong in round 16.
The Eagles’ home schedule also features a number of exciting matchups, beginning with Melbourne on March 22 at Optus Stadium.
West Coast will host two Friday night contests, four Saturday games and four Sunday matches.
And for the third year running, the Eagles will face old foe Essendon on a Thursday night at Optus Stadium.
“We did make the request to avoid a Thursday game for the benefit of our regional and metro-based members,” Nisbett noted.
The AFL has increased the amount of Thursday night matches to nine in season 2020.
In addition to Fremantle, West Coast faces four other teams twice next season.
The Eagles will double up in contests against Victorian powerhouses Richmond, Collingwood and Geelong, while also facing Port Adelaide with the away fixture in Adelaide on Good Friday.
The Eagles will also face Hawthorn on Anzac Day in Launceston, Tasmania.
“The fixture release is always an exciting time for the club, but also for our members looking ahead to the new season,” Nisbett said.
“We’re looking forward to our passionate supporters getting behind the team at all games next year.”
The full fixture can be viewed here.
