AFL News

West Coast, Port Adelaide confirm SSP additions

A VFL star and a recently delisted backman are pushing for AFL list spots.

Published by
Mitch Keating

Both Port Adelaide and West Coast have confirmed train-on prospects for the Supplemental Selection Period.

The Power have invited North Melbourne VFL star Jack Watkins to train at Alberton this pre-season in a bid to potentially fill a vacant list spot.

Watkins has had a strong past two seasons with the Kangaroos, winning best and fairest honours in both years while captaining the side. He would earn a VFL Team of the Year selection in 2024 after averaging 24.9 disposals, 4.4 tackles and 4.8 clearances per game.

“I'm really pleased that Port Adelaide have given me a chance to train with the AFL group,” Watkins said in a club statement. 

“I've absolutely loved the last few years at North Melbourne and couldn't be more grateful for my time there. 

“The opportunity to train at a new club and put my hand up for a possible list spot was something I couldn't pass up, and I'm really excited to get stuck in.” 

Port Adelaide Power train-on prospect Jack Watkins (Image: Matt Sampson, Port Adelaide FC)

The Power have just one list spot free for 2025 after passing on their second selection at the Rookie Draft, having added local talent Tom Cochrane with Pick 13.

West Coast have a sole vacancy also after passing on Pick 2, instead deciding to utilise the SSP to potentially bolster their list further.

The Eagles have confirmed the addition of train-on talent Sandy Brock, who has returned to Western Australia after being delisted by Gold Coast this off-season.

Brock spent time with Peel Thunder before being recruited by the Suns, with the defender playing 59 VFL games during his time in Queensland - including the club's 2023 premiership victory.

The Eagles could add a 10th player to their squad via their last remaining list spot, with Brock said to be in contention with recently cut West Coast defender Coby Burgiel.

Burgiel struggled to get a consistent run across his two years on the Eagles' list due to injuries, with the club handing the 20-year-old the chance to win back his position this summer.

The SSP will run through to Friday, February 21, with Essendon, Gold Coast, the Western Bulldogs and Carlton also having list spots free.

Published by
Mitch Keating