West Coast Eagles coach Andrew McQualter has admitted that the club played young midfielder Elijah Hewett in the wrong role before he was dropped from the senior side. The revelation comes after Hewett was omitted from the Eagles' lineup for their upcoming clash, sparking debate among fans and pundits about his development and usage.
McQualter's Admission
Speaking to the media on Thursday, McQualter acknowledged that the coaching staff had not put Hewett in a position to succeed. "We probably played him in a role that wasn't his best, and that's on us," McQualter said. "Elijah is a talented young player, and we need to ensure we give him every opportunity to show his capabilities. We've had some good discussions about where he fits best."
McQualter emphasized that the decision to drop Hewett was not a reflection of the player's effort or potential but rather a tactical adjustment. "It's about getting the balance right in the team and making sure we have the right mix for the game. Elijah will get another chance, and when he does, we'll make sure he's in a role that suits his strengths."
Hewett's Season So Far
Elijah Hewett, who was drafted by the Eagles with pick 14 in the 2022 AFL Draft, has shown flashes of brilliance in his limited appearances this season. However, consistency has been an issue, with the 19-year-old averaging 15 disposals per game while being used in a variety of positions, including forward and on the wing.
According to McQualter, the coaching staff believes Hewett is best suited to an inside midfield role, where he can use his strong hands and clean ball-handling to win contested possessions. "We've seen what he can do at the stoppages, and that's where we think his future lies," McQualter explained. "But we've been using him in more outside roles recently, which hasn't allowed him to have the same impact."
Reaction from the Football Community
The admission has drawn mixed reactions from the West Coast fan base and AFL analysts. Some have praised McQualter for taking accountability, while others have questioned the club's player development strategies. Former Eagles champion Glen Jakovich weighed in, saying, "It's good to see a coach admit when they've made a mistake. But it also raises questions about why it took so long to recognize the issue."
Hewett's omission comes at a crucial time for the Eagles, who are looking to build momentum after a string of competitive performances. The club is expected to recall Hewett after the bye, with a clear plan for his role in the team.
Looking Ahead
McQualter confirmed that Hewett will return to the WAFL this week to work on his game and regain confidence. "He's a resilient kid, and I have no doubt he'll bounce back. We'll continue to work closely with him to ensure he's ready when the next opportunity arises," McQualter added.
The Eagles face a tough test this weekend against the Sydney Swans at Optus Stadium, with the team looking to build on their recent improvement under McQualter's leadership.
