West Coast Eagles breathed a sigh of relief on the first day of AFL pre-season after star midfielder Harley Reid caused a scare during a fitness test. The former No.1 draft pick was participating in the maximal aerobic speed (MAS) test at Mineral Resources Park on Monday when he suddenly pulled out, pointing to his calf.
7NEWS Perth reporter Ryan Daniels initially reported that Reid had stopped, suggesting it could be cramp due to warm conditions. However, Reid quickly stretched out, put his shoes back on, and rejoined training, easing concerns. Daniels later confirmed, 'Harley has joined training again — crisis averted.'
During the MAS test, which involves a recorded beep increasing speed as players run laps, Reid stopped midway, spoke to fitness staff, and moved to the sideline to chat with coach Andrew McQualter. He then received treatment before being seen doing short passes while standing next to Nic Naitanui.
Reid had told The West Australian last week that he focused on improving his endurance during the off-season after struggling with fitness last year. The session was closed to media, but he was visible from behind the fence. Several experienced players, including captain Liam Duggan, Jake Waterman, Elliot Yeo, Jamie Cripps, Bailey Williams, Harry Edwards, and Matt Owies, joined the youngsters but followed their own training program.
CEO Don Pyke emphasized the importance of a strong summer, saying, 'They understand we've got some work to do. I think they're here with the right attitude to do the work which is what we need to do to climb back up the ladder.'
