A former AFL coach has publicly detailed the specific actions and strategic improvements that interim West Coast Eagles coach Andrew McQualter must demonstrate to earn a coveted contract extension with the club. The insights come as McQualter navigates a critical period in his coaching career, with his future at the Eagles hanging in the balance based on performance outcomes.
The Path to Securing a Long-Term Role
According to the experienced former coach, who has intimate knowledge of AFL club dynamics and coaching pressures, McQualter's ability to secure a permanent position extends beyond mere match results. While winning games remains fundamentally important, the coach emphasised that McQualter must showcase comprehensive leadership qualities and implement a clear, sustainable football philosophy that aligns with West Coast's long-term vision.
Key Performance Indicators for Contract Consideration
The former coach identified several critical areas where McQualter must demonstrate tangible progress:
- Player Development and Engagement: McQualter needs to show measurable improvement in developing younger players while maintaining the performance standards of established stars. This includes creating a training environment that fosters growth and commitment from the entire playing group.
- Tactical Innovation and Game Plan Execution: The interim coach must implement and refine a distinctive game style that can compete with top-tier AFL teams. This involves strategic adaptability during matches and the ability to make effective in-game adjustments that maximise the Eagles' strengths.
- Cultural Rebuilding and Club Morale: Following challenging seasons, McQualter faces the crucial task of revitalising team culture and instilling confidence throughout the organisation. His leadership in fostering resilience and unity will be closely scrutinised by club decision-makers.
- List Management Collaboration: Successful integration with the club's recruitment and list management teams is essential. McQualter must demonstrate he can provide valuable input on player retention, acquisition strategies, and long-term squad planning that aligns with the Eagles' competitive timeline.
The Broader Coaching Landscape Context
The former coach's commentary arrives during a period of significant transition for the West Coast Eagles, who are seeking stability and direction after several seasons of underwhelming performances. McQualter's interim appointment represents both an opportunity and a substantial challenge, with the club's leadership reportedly evaluating multiple factors beyond win-loss records when considering his future.
The analysis suggests that McQualter's contract prospects may depend heavily on his ability to implement systemic changes that position the Eagles for sustained success, rather than achieving short-term results through unsustainable methods. This approach reflects modern AFL club expectations, where coaching appointments increasingly consider cultural fit, developmental capabilities, and strategic vision alongside immediate competitive performance.
The Timeline for Decision-Making
While no official deadline has been publicly confirmed by West Coast Eagles management, industry observers anticipate that McQualter will need to demonstrate convincing progress throughout the 2026 AFL season to strengthen his case for a contract extension. The former coach noted that consistent improvement across multiple metrics—including player development, tactical execution, and cultural indicators—will likely carry more weight than isolated victories against lower-ranked opponents.
This detailed blueprint from an experienced coaching figure provides valuable context for understanding the complex evaluation process facing McQualter as he seeks to transition from interim to permanent coach at one of Australia's most prominent AFL clubs.
