Gold Coast SUNS defender Wil Powell says it will be a “tremendous honour” to feature in the upcoming AAMI AFL Origin clash for Western Australia.
Gold Coast SUNS defender Wil Powell says it will be a “tremendous honour” to feature in the upcoming AAMI AFL Origin clash for Western Australia.
Western Australia will take on Victoria on Saturday February 14 at Optus Stadium. Powell is relishing the opportunity to line up against his club teammates in what promises to be a fiercely competitive contest, as Victoria will feature several familiar faces Matt Rowell, Noah Anderson, Sam Collin’s, and new addition Ben King.
Powell will put on the WA jumper for the first time since his junior football days, describing the opportunity as a full-circle moment and one he is incredibly proud to achieve as an AFL player.
“It’s an honour to put on the Western Australian jumper,” Powell said.
“To represent your state again and do it at AFL level is something really special.”
The clash will also bring a unique twist, with Powell set to line up against a few SUNS teammates in what promises to be a highly competitive contest.
“The banter has already started in the change rooms,” he laughed.
“They’ve got their Victorian bags early, so I might be hiding some of their stuff”
He added that while its all in good fun, he’s genuinely looking forward to testing himself against his teammates on the field and seeing how they perform in a different team setup.
SUNS Assistant Coach Shaun Grigg will also feature on the Victorian coaching panel.
Grigg said the return of state representative football adds another layer of anticipation for fans eager to see elite players back in action.
“The footy community has been starved for this for a long time,” he said.
While preparing for representative duties and establishing himself as a reliable defender, Powell has also embraced a new challenge closer to home, spending time training through the midfield during the SUNS’ pre-season program. The 26-year-old is welcoming the opportunity to expand his skillset and add another string to his bow.
“I love playing backline. That’s all I’ve ever known and I thrive back there. Wherever I play, I am happy to pull on the WA jumper and just play,” Powell said.
“It’s brand new and pretty foreign to me, but I’m loving the challenge”
Grigg made note on the club’s ability to continually grow and adapt to what the game calls for.
“We’re always looking to evolve and get better,” Grigg said.
“We feel like Will has traits that really suit the midfield – his contest work, pressure and decision-making are all strengths.
“He can play through the midfield but also go back if we need him on a dangerous forward. That versatility is going to make us better.”
Grigg added Powell’s attitude throughout the transition has stood out.
“He wants to win and wants to improve his game. He’s been picking the brains of the midfielders and rucks and really embracing the challenge.”
The SUNS will kick start the year with back-to-back home games at People First Stadium, beginning under Friday night lights against Geelong in Opening Round before welcoming West Coast in Round 1.
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