The West Coast Eagles have offered their most significant hint to date about the initial role for their number one draft selection, Willem Duursma. Senior coach Adam Simpson's recent comments strongly suggest the highly-touted teenager will be groomed for a specific position as he transitions into the elite level.
Simpson Points to Forward Line Start for Duursma
Speaking to the media, Adam Simpson drew a direct comparison between Duursma and the club's previous top pick, Harley Reid. He indicated that the Eagles are likely to follow a similar development blueprint. Simpson explicitly stated that Duursma will "probably start forward", mirroring the initial pathway that proved so successful for Reid in his debut season.
The coach emphasised the importance of not overburdening young players with complex midfield roles from day one. By starting in the forward line, Duursma can focus on applying his elite athleticism, game sense, and goal-kicking ability while learning the speed and physicality of AFL football. This strategy allows him to build confidence and accumulate possessions in a slightly less congested part of the ground.
Learning from the Harley Reid Blueprint
The decision appears heavily influenced by the masterful handling of Harley Reid. The 2023 number one pick began his career as a dynamic half-forward, where he immediately impacted games with his strength, skill, and flair. Reid's explosive start, which culminated in winning the AFL's Rising Star award, has provided a clear template for integrating elite young talent.
Simpson's plan is not to pigeonhole Duursma as a permanent forward. The long-term vision almost certainly involves midfield minutes, given his capabilities. However, the initial focus is on a controlled introduction. This patient approach allows Duursma to develop his tank and understanding of AFL structures without the immediate pressure of being a primary on-ball contributor.
The Eagles' list management strategy, which has seen them stockpile early draft picks over recent years, is now bearing fruit. With a cohort of young stars including Reid, Noah Long, and now Duursma, Simpson is carefully constructing a team that can grow together. Managing the workload and position of these youngsters is a critical part of the club's rebuild.
What This Means for the Eagles' 2025 Structure
This revelation gives fans and analysts a clearer picture of West Coast's likely setup for the upcoming season. A forward line featuring Oscar Allen, Jake Waterman, and the roaming Willem Duursma presents a versatile and dangerous attacking mix. Duursma's height, leap, and ground-level skill make him a difficult match-up for opposition defenders.
Furthermore, this plan suggests the Eagles are confident in their existing midfield depth to start the year, allowing Duursma the time to develop. Players like Elliot Yeo, Tim Kelly, and Reuben Ginbey will shoulder the major on-ball responsibilities early, with Duursma potentially rotating through for short bursts as his fitness and understanding improve.
The key takeaway is that the West Coast Eagles are prioritising long-term development over short-term gain. By following the proven Reid model, they aim to set Willem Duursma up for a sustained and successful career, ensuring their prized number one pick becomes a cornerstone of the club's future success.
