The Fremantle Dockers have confirmed that they will not be offering winger Ethan Stanley a contract for the 2025 AFL season, bringing an end to his brief stint at the club.
Stanley, who was picked up by Fremantle during the 2023 mid-season rookie draft, made two senior appearances for the Dockers before being delisted.
Stanley's journey to the AFL was one of persistence and rapid progression. Originally from Frankston, Victoria, the 20-year-old began his football career playing with Beleura and the Frankston YCW Stonecats.
He later joined the Box Hill Hawks in the Victorian Football League, where his strong performances earned him an opportunity at the AFL level.
Stanley made his AFL debut as the substitute in round 19 of the 2023 season against the Sydney Swans.
He followed that up with a second appearance in Fremantle's memorable upset win over Geelong at GMHBA Stadium. Despite these promising starts, Stanley found it difficult to cement his place in the Dockers' senior lineup.
In addition to his AFL appearances, Stanley played 22 games for Fremantle's WAFL affiliate, Peel Thunder. However, he was notably absent from Peel Thunder's grand final win over East Perth earlier this month, which hinted at his eventual departure from the Dockers.
Fremantle's Executive General Manager of Football, Joe Brierty, thanked Stanley for his contributions during his time with the club, acknowledging the difficult nature of list management decisions.
“These decisions are never easy, but the Club would like to thank Ethan for his contribution to our Club over the past two seasons and we wish him all the best for the future,” Brierty said.
Stanley's departure comes as part of a broader list shake-up for Fremantle ahead of the 2025 season, following the delistings of forwards Matt Taberner and Sebit Kuek, along with defender Ethan Hughes.