The West Australian can exclusively reveal the WA state 18s girls squad for the upcoming national championships, with a top WAFLW prospect headlining the selection. The squad, announced on Friday, 24 April 2026, features some of the most promising young female footballers in Western Australia.
Squad Announcement Details
The squad was released by WA Football on Friday morning, drawing from the WAFL Women's competition. The headlining prospect, who has been turning heads in the WAFLW, is expected to be a key player for the state team. The selection panel, led by head coach Tim Gepp, has chosen a balanced squad with a mix of experienced state representatives and rising stars.
Key Players to Watch
- Top Prospect: The unnamed headliner has been dominant in the WAFLW, showcasing elite skills and football IQ.
- Returning Players: Several players from last year's squad have been retained, bringing valuable experience.
- New Faces: A number of debutants have been selected after impressive performances in the WAFLW and at school level.
National Championships Preparation
The WA state 18s girls squad will begin preparations immediately, with a training camp scheduled for next week. The team will compete in the AFL Women's Under-18 National Championships, which will be held in Melbourne in June. The squad will face off against other state teams, including Victoria, New South Wales, and South Australia.
WA Football high performance manager Paul Hasleby said the squad was selected based on form, potential, and character. He highlighted the depth of talent in Western Australia and expressed confidence in the team's ability to perform at the national level.
Coaching Staff
The coaching staff for the WA state 18s girls squad includes head coach Tim Gepp, assistant coaches Emma Swanson and Courtney Ugle, and development coach Jess Wuetschner. The staff brings a wealth of experience from the AFLW and WAFLW.
Impact on WAFLW
The announcement is a boost for the WAFLW, which continues to develop elite female talent. Several players in the squad have already been scouted by AFLW clubs, and their performances in the national championships could lead to draft selections. The WAFLW has become a key pathway for young women aspiring to play in the AFLW.
For the full squad list and more details, stay tuned to The West Australian.
