The West Coast Eagles had a special visit recently, when Ebony Sommers made the trip from Albany to meet her football heroes.

The youngster made the journey to meet her favourite players Dean Cox and Nic Naitanui, and the prospect caused great excitement according to Ebony’s mother Lorene.

“Ebony just about did back flips when we told her we were taking her to watch a West Coast training session,” Lorene joked.

“We’ve supported West Coast from the very beginning; we are always yelling at the TV and hoping to cheer them on to a win.”

Travelling long distances to support their team is common for country supporters, with Lorene believing football is an important part of community life.

“I think country supporters are probably even more passionate because many will drop what they are doing to make the long trip to Perth to support the boys,” Lorene said.

“Everyone takes it seriously, some like to decorate the front of their houses with West Coast gear, or if they are travelling to the game they will deck out their hotel room in blue and gold.”

On returning to Albany, Ebony is looking forward to telling her friends about her visit.

“They won’t believe that I’ve met Cox or Naitanui until they see my picture and my signed shirt; it was really exciting,” Ebony said.

As the family continue their support from home, Lorene remains confident the future at West Coast is bright.

“It’s great to see them do such a great job this season, they are going to give all the rest of the teams in the competition a run for their money,” Lorene predicted.

“I hope they get into the finals and get a chance to prove themselves, because I believe they are up to the challenge.”