Another tough year in the rebuild saw West Coast finish 18th in 2025, managing just one win in Andrew McQualter’s first season at the helm.

While results were hard to swallow, the Eagles avoided any 100 point blowouts and exposed plenty of youth as injuries to key veterans opened the door for the next wave.

Kurt from the Golden Wings Podcast joined The Footy Forecast to reflect on a challenging 2025 campaign and where the growth is coming from heading into this season.

We break down the Eagles developing game style and frustrations around inconsistent senior performances, before highlighting the positives on the field.

Reuben Ginbey’s runner up best and fairest season stood out, Jobe Shanahan showed genuine promise, Liam Baker was the clear standout, and mid season draftee Tom McCarthy made an instant impact off half back.

We also unpack a strong draft haul headlined by Willem Duursma and Cooper Duff Tytler, adding elite young talent in a major tick for the club’s rebuild.

Experienced additions including Brandon Starcevich and Tylar Young bolster the back six, while we discuss key departures such as former captain Oscar Allen, Liam Ryan, and the retirements of Jeremy McGovern and Dom Sheed.

Looking ahead to 2026, new co captains Liam Duggan and Liam Baker take the reins as the club searches for stability after last year’s leadership drama.

We assess preseason standouts, roles up for grabs and what a realistic pass mark looks like as the Eagles aim to show real progress in the next phase of their rebuild.

A must listen for all Eagles fans!