Country talent shines in WA State 18s squad

WA Football recently announced a squad featuring emerging talent from across the state, with players set to take part in an extended program including trial matches
and preparation for the AFL National Championships.

The squad brings together some of the best young footballers in Western Australia, with selectors highlighting the depth, balance and versatility across the group as they prepare to compete against the nation’s best.

Importantly, regional WA continues to play a vital role in the talent pathway, with several players beginning their journeys in country leagues and communities before
progressing into the WAFL system.

Leading the country representation is West Perth’s Koby LeCras, who hails from Cervantes in the Central Midlands Coastal Football League, continuing a strong regional football lineage.

Perth’s Jayden Clarke (Northam Saints – Avon Junior Football League) and South Fremantle’s Lucas Robinson (Lake Grace/Pingrup – Ongerup Football Association)
are further examples of players whose football foundations were built in country WA.

The South West is also well represented, with Swan Districts’ Leo Steed (Dalyellup Dockers – South West Junior Football League), Sheldon Pickett (Carey Park – South
West Football League), and train-on player Taj Allan (South Bunbury – SWJFL) earning selection.

From the Great Southern region, Claremont’s Robert Farmer (SDJFA & Railways – GSFL) and Elijah Williams (SDJFA & Royals – GSFL) highlight the continued strength of junior development programs in the area.

Mortlock Football League product Cody Lee (Dowerin) has also been recognised, while Damien Newry (East Kimberley) reinforces the reach of the pathway across the state’s most remote regions.

Robinson’s inclusion across both the Ongerup Football Association and broader Great Southern pathway further underlines the importance of local competitions in developing talent capable of reaching the state level.

The inclusion of train-on players within the program provides additional opportunity for emerging talent to experience the elite environment, while also ensuring depth and flexibility within the squad.

For Country Football WA, the selection of these players is a strong reflection of the work being done across regional leagues and clubs to develop the next generation of footballers. As the squad prepares for its upcoming program and national campaign, these players will carry not only the WA jumper, but the pride of the communities and clubs where their football journeys began.