Harken Named Captain For New State Challenge

Over the next few weeks, ATCO, alongside WA Football, are shining a light on some of the many outstanding female figures throughout our great game. First up in the series is newly-appointed Kia WAFLW State Team skipper Jayme Harken.

One of WA’s most decorated ATCO WAFLW footballers has been appointed captain of the KIA WAFLW State side for the first time.

Jayme Harken’s elevation to the leadership continues a remarkable list of achievements which include dual premierships with Claremont, a two-time Dhara Kerr Medallist, and a former West Coast Eagle.

She’s bursting with pride at the prospect of playing against South Australia at Sullivan Logistics Stadium on Saturday.

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“Representing the Black Swans is extra special because outside of underage talent pathways in sports, there’s rarely a time you can demonstrate pride for your State,” Harken said.

“I love WA and everything it has to offer, so what better way to show it than in the game of footy that I love – West is Best!”

Harken has been a regular WA player, dating back seven years.

“In the current format of state games, I’ve played in all of them, so this will be my third time,” she said.

“Back in 2019 I was lucky enough to play Gold Coast in a state game when the Gold Coast Suns was about to come into the AFLW which was exciting as I was new to the sport then.

“I started playing in 2018 when I was 22, so no underage nationals for me.”

The 30-year-old has explained what makes state footy so special.

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“At club footy you are working over an entire season to try and win that elusive premiership,” Harken said.

“State games are about who can come together quickly and have one opportunity to prove they are the best, no second chances.

“You are playing with the best players from WA, who the weekend before were your rivals, but on one weekend of the year are your teammates.

“In club footy you have built connections over months and years of training, with clear game plans and structures developed over time.

“The state game is about coming together and bringing all the strengths you were picked for and showcasing that with another 20 of the state’s best, so how cool is that?”

According to Harken, the challenge of forming a bond with opposition players isn’t as daunting as some may believe.

“With the development pathways and experience of players in the league these days, it’s not often you don’t know a player from another club, particularly when they are some of their best players,” Harken said.

“When we all love footy and want the same outcome from the game, it’s really easy to flick the switch between teammates and rivals.

“We’ve been really open from the start around our identity, the way we want to play and have even done some in-training team building to get to know each other’s strengths.

“In only a few sessions, we really have gelled as a team and are getting the most out of our time together.”

Having seen and been part of the growth of the ATCO WAFLW competition, Harken is confident that will translate into a strong performance against South Australia, reversing the result of 2025.

“The WAFLW gets better and better every year, and I may be biased, but I don’t know if the other leagues, let alone the SANFLW, have developed at such a rate,” she said.

“The talent we are producing is off the charts and the hunger to continue putting WA on the map is greater than ever.

“I think this year in particular we have a great balance of experience, youth, speed and strength, and will play an exciting brand of footy that will get us over the line.”

Given her vast playing experience, Harken is also inspiring the next generation as a Development Coach of the State Talent Program for the 18s Girls at WA Football.

“I’ve been lucky enough to get the opportunity to share some of my footy experience and knowledge with the next generation of WA footy stars,” Harken enthused.

“Just like I always want my footy to grow, I have a passion for helping and seeing others grow, and that’s exactly why I’m getting involved.

“There is so much talent coming through, and if I can help pass even a little bit of my knowledge with these girls, I’m hoping it helps them get a step closer to their goals and dreams.”

Her top priority this weekend is to be part of winning state team.

“I loved playing at Optus, but there’s something about playing at Sullivan Logistics Stadium that gets me even more excited,” she said.

“I can’t wait to have thousands of not just fans, but friends and family, right near the boundary donning the yellow and black.

“With big gaps between games at Optus the crowd didn’t feel the same as what I’m hoping it will be at Leederville.

“Seeing and hearing your loved ones in the crowd is extra special and I can’t wait for three huge games and hopefully three wins.”

ATCO are the official naming rights partner for the 2026 WAFLW Season. Watch all ATCO WAFLW matches live and free on YouTube @WAFLOfficial and head to wafl.com.au to purchase tickets for upcoming games.