In a devastating blow that has sent shockwaves through the AFLW community, West Coast Eagles forward Mikayla Western has been ruled out of the club's inaugural finals campaign after suffering a torn anterior cruciate ligament.
The cruel injury struck during training this week, completely shattering the 22-year-old's dream of participating in the Eagles' first-ever finals series. Western collapsed to the ground in visible distress, immediately signalling serious concern for medical staff and teammates.
Heartbreak on the Eve of History
This injury represents the worst possible timing for both player and club. The West Coast Eagles were preparing to make their debut finals appearance after years of building towards this moment, and Western had been a crucial part of that journey.
"It's absolutely shattering for Mikayla and for our entire group," said Eagles coach Michael Prior. "She's worked incredibly hard to be part of this finals campaign, and to have it taken away like this is just brutal."
Road to Recovery Begins
Western will now undergo reconstructive surgery followed by an extensive rehabilitation period that typically spans 9-12 months. This means she'll miss not only the current finals series but likely the entire 2025 AFLW season as well.
The young forward had been enjoying her most consistent season to date, becoming an increasingly important part of the Eagles' attacking structure. Her speed, pressure and goal sense had made her one of the team's most dangerous small forwards.
Teammates Rally Around Fallen Star
West Coast players have rallied around their injured teammate, with several taking to social media to express their support. The club has confirmed they'll dedicate their finals campaign to Western as they attempt to channel their disappointment into inspired performances.
"We're all playing for Western now," said co-captain Emma Swanson. "She's been such an important part of our journey to this point, and we want to make sure her spirit is out there with us every step of the way."
The ACL epidemic continues to plague women's Australian Rules football, with Western becoming the latest in a long line of players to succumb to the devastating knee injury that has ended many promising careers prematurely.
