The 2026 West End State Squad has been announced, and it's a team brimming with potential and a desire to make a statement. With a mix of fresh talent and seasoned players, this squad is poised to challenge the WAFL in Perth on Saturday afternoon. The Croweaters are determined to turn the tide after a disappointing loss to the Sandgropers last year, and they're ready to showcase their skills at the prestigious Haydn Bunton Junior Cup.
One of the standout players is Ted Clohesy from Woodville-West Torrens, a ball magnet with an eye for the spectacular. His teammate, Kade Herbert, is a hard-running force to be reckoned with. The North Adelaide duo of Angus Schumacher and Oliver Francou, along with the 2024 Sandover Medallist Nik Rokahr, are also in the running for a spot in the midfield. These players have been rewarded for their exceptional form and their ability to make an impact in the game.
The squad also boasts experienced AFL players like Patrick Parnell and Josh Fahey, who bring a wealth of knowledge and rebound potential from half-back. Jack Delean, with his WAFL experience, is another key member of this team. It's worth noting that the West End State Squad is a melting pot of talent from various SANFL clubs, with Norwood leading the pack with seven representatives, followed by Sturt and the Eagles with five each.
However, the team is not without its challenges. Captain Liam McBean is unavailable for selection, and the leadership group is yet to be announced. The squad will be trimmed to 23 players after intense training at the SANFL's High Performance Centre, leaving a few players on the sidelines. Despite this, the team's spirit and determination are unwavering, and they're ready to take on the WAFL in a highly anticipated match.
The day's events in Perth will be action-packed, with the SANFLW State team kicking off the festivities against the WAFLW, followed by the West End State Team's highly anticipated match against the WAFL. The squad's journey to Perth will be a crucial part of their preparation, with a final Captain's Run at Claremont to fine-tune their strategy. With so much talent on display, the 2026 West End State Squad is set to put on a show and make a lasting impression in the world of Australian rules football.
