With Pick 8 in the Rookie Draft, the Fremantle Dockers selected lively small forward Leon Kickett, an over-age prospect who quietly leapt up draft boards in the latter stages of the season.
Cousin of retired 135-game Docker Dale Kickett, Leon impressed recruiters with his zip, high leap and pressure for WAFL club Swan Districts, which saw him dominate at colts level and then thrive for the seniors, kicking three goals in his two WAFL appearances.
However, Kickett found out that his AFL dream had become a reality in a different fashion to most, missing out on hearing his selection live.
“I was at the gym just finishing up and waiting to get on track with the Rookie Draft,” Kickett told Dockers Media.
“I had to shorten it up there and leave. It was a bit hard because we didn’t have time to listen or see it, but thanks to Instagram I found out.
“It was a bit upsetting last night not hearing my name get called out but having the call up today was exciting and made me feel a lot better.”
MELBOURNE, AUSTRALIA – OCTOBER 05: Leon Kickett running on October 05, 2025 in Melbourne, Australia. (Photo by Asanka Ratnayake/AFL Photos/via Getty Images)
Kickett spent much of his junior football days in Bunbury, a two-hour drive south of Perth, but moved back to the capital city of Western Australia to hunt his AFL dream by spending time in the WAFL.
He hopes now, with his AFL call-up confirmed, that he can inspire more of his Bunbury community to follow in his footsteps.
“There will be a lot more [moving to Perth] now I’ve been recognised,” Kickett said.
“I’ve got a lot of little brothers down in Bunbury so hopefully they can take the same steps as me.”
Kickett understands his journey is just beginning, however, and has set his sights on playing alongside a talented mix of Fremantle small forwards on Optus Stadium turf sometime next year.
“I’m hopeful to chuck a jersey on and debut. Other than that, I can’t wait to meet the boys and become a better player.”