Willem Duursma, Cooper Duff-Tytler and Josh Lindsay spoke to the media following their first day of training
By westcoasteagles.com.au
West Coast’s newest recruits have landed in Perth and hit the track for the first time, marking the beginning of an exciting chapter for the club and fans.
Number one draft pick Willem Duursma admitted the reality of being an AFL player started to sink in the moment he stepped onto the track at Mineral Resources Park.
While the spotlight often shines brightest on the top pick, Duursma is taking a grounded approach to the attention.
“I was chatting with Harley Reid last night, his advice was to take it day by day and don’t even think about it,” Duursma said.
“Once you’re at the club and with the players, you’re just another number so it feels pretty natural and normal.”
Duursma has already identified senior players he wants to learn from, including Liam Baker and Reuben Ginbey.
“Baker sets an elite standard and Ginbey’s always doing extras. Learning from those two will be huge for me,” Duursma said.
For Cooper Duff-Tytler, the excitement of joining West Coast was amplified by the chance to work with one of the club’s most iconic figures.
“When the coaches told me Nic Naitanui was going to be doing some work with us, I was definitely very excited,” Duff-Tytler said.
“I’m sure I’ll learn so much from him over the pre-season.”
The 200cm ruck made the switch from basketball to football last year, noting his mobility and follow-up work as his biggest strengths, and he’s eager to show them off.
“I think we’re all itching to get into the full ground drills and show what we can do because that’s what you’re here for,” Duff-Tytler said.
Settling into Perth has been smooth thanks to the support of teammates.
“I’m staying at Matt Flynn’s house and he’s been unreal,” Duff-Tytler said.
“All the boys have been great today and welcomed us in.”
Pick 19 Josh Lindsay might have flown under the radar compared to his fellow draftees, but he boasts a lethal left foot and is determined to make an impact.
“At the end of the day, whatever number it is, I’m just fortunate enough to be at such a great club,” Lindsay said.
“I’ll work as hard as I can and back myself to play my best footy.”
“I pride myself on (my kicking) and just want to help the team as much as possible.”
The Geelong product has already moved in with teammate Liam Baker before joining Jack Graham later this week.
“It’s a big move leaving family behind, but they’ve been super supportive,” Lindsay said.
“I can’t wait to get started over here.”
Lindsay also paid tribute to former mentor Troy Selwood, who played a pivotal role in his development.
“He always had the belief that I was good enough,” Lindsay said.
“When he passed away earlier this year, it was a huge shock, but I want to carry on his legacy.”