Son-of-a-gun Jake Waterman will remain with the club he loves for three more years after signing a contract extension.
Coming off another encouraging campaign in his fourth season at the top level, the versatile and mobile forward has put pen to paper on a deal keeping him at West Coast through until the end of 2023.
“I just wanted to enjoy my footy this year and was lucky enough to play some decent footy, and the club has put a lot of faith in me by offering me a contract,” Waterman told westcoasteagles.com.au.
“Locking down at the club for another three years, I’m just over the moon and pretty excited to see what this team can do going forward.
“Absolutely love the club and couldn’t picture myself playing anywhere else.”
Waterman, whose father Chris was a dual Eagles premiership player in 1992 and ’94, has chalked up 39 games and kicked 37 goals since he was a father-son selection at pick 77 in the 2016 draft.
The 22-year-old managed 10 appearances this year, breaking into the side for round five and becoming an important member of senior coach Adam Simpson’s line-up thereafter.
A fractured hand cost him four matches between rounds 12-15, however he returned immediately once his injury had healed against the Western Bulldogs and produced one of his best performances with 14 touches and two goals.
Waterman’s ability to switch between positions, not only within attack but also on a wing and drifting into defence, showcased his value during a season like no other.
“Jake had to earn his spot this season but once he got into the side he showed whole-hearted commitment to playing whatever role was necessary for the team to win,” General Manager – Football Craig Vozzo said.
“We see him as an important member of the squad going forward and have been very pleased with his development this season.
“We are looking forward to watching him to continue to grow alongside several of our other emerging players in the coming seasons.”