Harry Barnett

West Coast ruckman secures future

The Eagles have locked away another emerging youngster.

Published by
Mitch Keating

Emerging Eagles ruckman Harry Barnett has recommitted to West Coast on a new multi-year contract extension.

Set to see the end of his rookie contract reach its expiry at the cessation of this season, the South Australian has added two years to his deal to be locked in with the royal blue and gold until the end of the 2026 season.

"I'm really excited to develop my craft with the boys and I really believe in what the club's offering and they really believe in me, which is shown through this contract offering," Barnett said in a club announcement.

"I really like the unity of the younger boys, there's 21 or 22 of us under 22 and it's exciting to move forward with that group of boys.

"I haven't strung together the footy I would have liked. Last year there was availability issues in the ones and this year I had an injury which set me back for about four weeks or so.

"This contract is a sign of their believing in me although I haven't showed a lot on the track just yet, but hopefully that will come.

PERTH, AUSTRALIA - MARCH 24: Kieren Briggs of the Giants compete in a ruck contest with Harry Barnett of the Eagles of the Eagles during the 2024 AFL Round 02 match between the West Coast Eagles and the GWS GIANTS at Optus Stadium on March 24, 2024 in Perth, Australia. (Photo by Daniel Carson/AFL Photos via Getty Images)

"Ruck, I believe is the hardest position to play on the field, and learning that craft from Ryan Turnbull, Bailey Williams and now Matt Flynn is really going to progress my development."

Barnett has played two games for the Eagles since being drafted with Pick 23 in the 2022 National Draft out of West Adelaide, with his debut coming last year against St Kilda as the tactical sub.

The young ruckman returned to Adam Simpson's side in Round 2 against GWS and recorded six disposals, eight hitouts and two tackles before being subbed out of the match.

The 20-year-old has impressed during spells in the WAFL this year, averaging 7.2 disposals and 19.8 hitouts from six matches at the state league level.

Published by
Mitch Keating