West Coast Eagles young gun Reuben Ginbey is poised to elevate his game to new heights in the 2026 AFL season, returning to pre-season training with a noticeably more powerful physique following a breakout year in defence.
From Midfielder to Defensive Pillar
The 21-year-old, originally drafted with pick No.9 in 2022, spent his first two seasons rotating through the midfield and half-back flank. However, necessity during a difficult 2025 campaign forced coach Andrew McQualter to deploy the 191cm athlete as a permanent key defender. The move proved inspired, with Ginbey successfully shutting down a diverse range of forwards, from mobile Sydney star Isaac Heeney to powerhouse spearheads like Jeremy Cameron and Charlie Curnow.
His outstanding adaptation to the role was formally recognised when he finished runner-up to star recruit Liam Baker in the club's prestigious John Worsfold Medal count. Now, after a brief end-of-year break, Ginbey has returned to Mineral Resources Park in even more imposing shape, having dedicated his off-season to adding bulk to his frame.
Building a Body for the Elite
Ginbey's physical development has been a focal point of the Eagles' pre-season. He built his workload gradually, starting with strong running sessions before integrating fully into the main training group prior to the Christmas break. The Dunsborough product's goal is clear: to construct a physique capable of competing with the AFL's very best key position players.
Michael Broadbridge, who coached Ginbey at Wesley College, believes settling in defence for another full season will allow his former protege to claim some major scalps. "Physically he's got some great characteristics which put him ahead of some players his age," Broadbridge told The West Australian. "But I think he's still got a lot of development in his game."
A Unique Skill Set for the Modern Game
Broadbridge highlighted Ginbey's rare blend of attributes as the foundation for further success. "Reuben has this unique combination of athleticism, strength and size," he said. This package enables him to play the aggressive, rebounding style demanded in contemporary football.
Ginbey's straight-line running and long, penetrating kick are seen as major assets for an Eagles side looking to improve from a one-win season. "He gives them that rebound factor and he does it from an honest starting position, where he's on his opponent and he's actually beating his opponent," Broadbridge explained.
The young defender's ability to first nullify his direct match-up and then launch damaging counter-attacks is considered a particularly valuable skill. "He will use his direct opponent as the starting point, beat him and then go from there," Broadbridge added. "That's a really handy skill set to have in this day and age."
With pre-season training now back in full swing, all eyes at Mineral Resources Park are on the bulked-up defender as he aims to transform his promising 2025 into consistent dominance in 2026.
