Jed Hagan Impresses in Tasmania Devils' Inaugural VFL Match
Former East Fremantle forward Jed Hagan has taken a significant step toward realizing his AFL aspirations after delivering a standout performance in the Tasmania Devils' VFL debut on Saturday. Hagan, 21, kicked four goals from 18 disposals and 10 tackles, playing a pivotal role in the Devils' 14.12 (96) to 11.13 (79) triumph against Coburg at North Hobart Oval.
A Special Day for Tasmanian Football
Hagan described the experience as "a special day", highlighting the enthusiastic crowd and the team's strong showing. "It's a big footy State. It's important to immerse yourself in it. Everywhere you go, everyone is talking about the Devils," he told The West Australian. "To finally get out there today and just put on a show for the local Tasmanians, it was a cool experience, and they turned out in numbers."
This match marks Tasmania's return to the VFL after a previous stint from 2001 to 2008, with the Devils now set to evolve into the AFL's 19th team in 2028. Hagan joined the newly established club with the goal of securing a spot on their AFL list, leveraging his recent form.
Career Trajectory and Inspiration
Hagan is coming off a career-best season at East Fremantle, where he kicked 28 goals from 17 games last year. His journey has been diverse, including a stint at Port Adelaide's SANFL side in 2023, where he finished third in their fairest and best award.
He cited inspiration from former East Fremantle teammates Milan Murdock (West Coast) and Mitch Zadow (Port Adelaide), who earned AFL opportunities through the pre-season supplemental selection period. "That was the main reason for coming over. The dangling carrot potentially in two years' time, but at the end of the day, it was just to get over here and keep playing good footy and give things a good crack," Hagan explained.
"I am going to keep leaving no stone unturned when it comes to a potential AFL lifeline, but I know it's about sticking to what I do best and keep grinding away. Hopefully, if I can keep doing that, eventually something will work out for me, and it'll be the best thing ever because it means everything to me."
Team Contributions and Future Prospects
Other notable performers for the Devils included former Fremantle and West Coast forward Hugh Dixon, who also kicked four goals, and South Fremantle premiership wingman Jaxon Artemis, who accumulated 16 disposals. Hagan emphasized the growing trend of mature-age players in AFL recruitment, noting, "Seeing those guys like Milan and Mitch get picked up, it definitely makes you hungry just to keep pushing. And it just goes to show that mature agers are definitely a thing these days, and clubs are looking more to it."
As Tasmania builds toward its AFL entry, Hagan's debut has set a positive tone, showcasing both individual talent and team potential in this historic VFL outing.
