The dreams of two young WA boys came true this afternoon when they were recruited by West Coast in this year’s national draft.

Swan Districts’ Murray Newman and Perth’s Fraser McInnes were selected with picks 23 and 28 respectively and the pair couldn’t be happier.

A small forward or midfielder with strong tackling pressure, Newman explained the news was still sinking in.

“It’s just starting to hit me now,” Newman said. “It’s a dream come true and a great feeling.

“When I thought I might be a chance to get picked up, my number one goal was to stay in Perth, and then if I had to pick a team, it would be the Eagles because I reckon they’re up and coming and they’re going to be very successful in the next few years.

“I’ve been talking to Nic [Naitanui] a bit lately and it’s great to be on the same team as him. I also went to school for a bit with Fraser and we played together, so to team up with him is great.”

McInnes, a key position player with a good pair of hands, echoed Newman’s sentiments, adding that he is a lifelong Eagles supporter.

“When my name got called out, I couldn’t believe it,” McInnes said. “It was just an awesome feeling.

“I barracked for the Eagles for my whole life, so now to be a part of it and to work with some great people is a huge honour for me and I’m just excited to get into it.

“West Coast has been an extremely successful club over its short period and I think it will hopefully build on that next year. I’m just looking to contribute in whatever way I can to the success of the club.”

With unique ties to the Eagles, McInnes was seemingly born to play for the blue and gold, following in the footsteps of uncles and former Eagles Rob Wiley and Michael Brennan, as well as cousin Jacob Brennan who was the club’s father/son selection last year. Another cousin, Georgia Brennan, also works in the membership department.

“My two uncles have played for the club, so there’s a pretty strong family background,” McInnes said.

“With Jacob getting drafted last year, I can’t wait to work with him. I guess it was meant to be.”