It was a long wait on draft night, but it was more than worth it for West Coast’s first pick Luke Edwards.
The 18-year-old South Australian defender from Glenelg was sitting on the edge of his seat at home with his parents, brothers and girlfriend as the picks slipped by.
But when at nearly 10.30pm local time his name was called out after the Eagles recruiters swooped at selection 52 the Edwards household exploded with delight.
“Everyone was up and about. Everyone was super excited,” a thrilled Edwards told westcoasteagles.com.au.
“We thought it was all over but my manager was saying West Coast was sort of interested but nothing was guaranteed.
“Once I got my name called out everyone jumped up, super excited and I can’t wait.”
Immediately, his phone start buzzing, with West Coast coach Adam Simpson among the first to call.
“He gave me a quick buzz; he’s a ripper. It’s the first time I’ve spoken to him and I love him already,” Edwards said.
“Just can’t wait to get over there. He just said enjoy the next couple of days with the family.”
Edwards is the son of football royalty in Adelaide, with his father Tyson winning two flags and playing 321 games for the Crows.
He was eligible to join Adelaide under the father-son rule but was passed over by his hometown club, and will instead head west.
“He’s super excited for me. He just wanted me to get an opportunity somewhere, he doesn’t care where,” Edwards said of his father.
“A great club like West Coast, I’m ecstatic and pumped. So is Mum as well, she had a little tear before and is super happy for me.”
Blessed with clean hands and good vision from defence, Edwards can also push up the ground and can’t wait to get across to meet his new teammates and start pre-season training.
“I’ve been to Perth last year for a state game. I’ve been there a couple of times, it’s a beautiful city,” Edwards said.
“I’m sure I will love it, I just can’t wait.
“I’m a bit of a versatile sort of player. Majority I play down back, but can go through the midfield but can go up forward as well.”
