The West Coast Eagles have secured a potential long-term successor in the ruck, with draftee Cooper Duff-Tytler officially joining the nest and declaring himself ready to spread his wings at AFL level.
From Claremont to the Coast: A Dream Realised
Selected with pick number 42 in the 2024 AFL Draft, Cooper Duff-Tytler's path to the Eagles was one of patience and persistence. The 19-year-old key position player honed his craft with Claremont in the WAFL, where his standout performances as a mobile ruckman and forward finally caught the eye of the club he grew up supporting.
Standing at an imposing 200cm tall, Duff-Tytler brings a rare blend of size, athleticism, and skill. His journey was not without its challenges, having been overlooked in his initial draft year. However, a dedicated season of development paid dividends, culminating in the life-changing phone call from West Coast list manager Rohan O'Brien.
Filling Big Shoes: The Next Generational Ruck
The Eagles have a storied history with dominant ruckmen, and the club sees Duff-Tytler as a critical part of their future. With veteran big man Nic Naitanui retired and Bailey Williams establishing himself, the addition of Duff-Tytler provides crucial depth and a long-term project with immense upside.
In his own words, Duff-Tytler is eager to learn and contribute. "I'm just ready to get to work," he stated, emphasising his willingness to play any role required by coach Adam Simpson. His versatility is a key asset; he is comfortable competing in the centre bounce but also poses a genuine threat when resting in the forward line, thanks to his clean hands and goal sense.
Preparation and Immediate Goals
Duff-Tytler has not been idle since draft night. He has already begun integrating with the squad, participating in training sessions and familiarising himself with the club's elite environment at Mineral Resources Park. His immediate focus is on building strength and absorbing the game plan, with an eye on pushing for senior selection in the 2025 season.
The young ruckman credits his family and his time at Claremont for his resilience. "The WAFL was perfect for my development," he noted, highlighting the physicality and standard of play that prepared him for the professional leap. Now, under the guidance of West Coast's development coaches, he aims to refine his tap work and around-the-ground endurance.
For the West Coast Eagles, the drafting of Cooper Duff-Tytler represents a strategic investment. He is viewed not just as a player, but as the potential cornerstone of their ruck division for the next decade. As pre-season intensifies, all eyes will be on this homegrown talent as he begins his quest to become the next great Eagles big man.
