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Eagles make list culls as trio left without deals

“We wish them every success in their future endeavours.”

Published by
Aidan Cellini

West Coast have made more changes to their list, delisting trio Alex Witherden, Jai Culley and Coby Burgiel following the completion of the 2024 AFL Trade and Free Agency period.

The Eagles added Richmond pair Liam Baker and Jack Graham to the list, as well as Carlton small forward Matthew Owies, creating a list squeeze at the Perth club.

Witherden joined the club ahead of the 2021 season, successfully requesting a trade from Brisbane.

The former Lion was a familiar face in defence for the Eagles, playing 60 games for the club, including 40 over the past two campaigns.

PERTH, AUSTRALIA - MARCH 26: Alex Witherden of the Eagles kicks the ball during the 2023 AFL Round 02 match between the West Coast Eagles and the GWS Giants at Optus Stadium on March 26, 2023 in Perth, Australia. (Photo by Daniel Carson/AFL Photos via Getty Images)

Culley, the first player picked in the 2022 mid-season rookie draft, returned from a knee reconstruction this year and played 12 matches in total.

It is understood that the 21-year-old has garnered some interest around the competition, including multiple Victorian clubs.

Burgiel has been plagued by injuries since being selected with pick 29 in the 2022 national draft and did not feature at the top level.

The club revealed that the 20-year-old will be considered for a spot as a train-on player over pre-season.

West Coast GM of Football Gavin Bell acknowledged the contribution of the trio.

"On behalf of the club, I would like to acknowledge the contributions Alex, Jai and Coby have made to West Coast and thank them for their service," Bell said.

"It is always a difficult time when these decisions have to be made, and all three are terrific young men who have been valued members of the playing group.

"We wish them every success in their future endeavours."

Zane Trew of the West Coast Eagles in 2024 against Brisbane (Image via AFL Photos)

The trio join Jordyn Baker, Jamaine Jones and Zane Trew as delistings by the Eagles.

West Coast also farewelled Tom Barrass (Hawthorn) and Jack Darling (North Melbourne) via the player movement period.

Club legend Andrew Gaff also announced his retirement at the conclusion of the 2024 season.

The club will continue assessing further list decisions ahead of the October 31 list lodgement deadline.

Published by
Aidan Cellini