WA Duo to Make AFL Debut

The West Australian Football Commission congratulates local teenagers Arthur Jones and Jacob van Rooyen on being selected to make their AFL debut in Round 3.

Jones was taken by the Western Bulldogs at pick 43 in the 2021 NAB AFL Draft and has been named on a wing to face the Brisbane Lions at Marvel Stadium tonight.

Originally from Mt Barker, Jones represented Wesley College and Claremont in the WAFL Colts on the way to earning representation in WA’s Under 18 side.

WAFC State Talent Manager Adam Jones believes Jones has a bright future in the AFL.

“We at the WAFC are absolutely rapt for him.

Arthur is a terrific young man with an infectious personality so it’s very pleasing to see him selected,” Jones said.

The 19 year-old has broken into the side after a pre-season groin injury.

“ Arthur has a terrific combination of speed and endurance.

He plays a similar style of football to Bradley Hill at St Kilda, so expect to see plenty of run and carry from him,” Jones said.

Jacob van Rooyen will run onto the MCG on Sunday in arguably the match of the round when the Demons host the Sydney Swans.

Van Rooyen was grabbed by Melbourne at pick 19 in the 2021 NAB AFL Draft, having forged a reputation playing for Claremont’s Colts team and catching recruiter’s eyes during the NAB Under 18 National Championships.

Jones is confident van Rooyen has the tools to play at both ends of the ground.

“Jacob is hard working, competitive key forward who has a big frame and can take a strong mark.

In the State 18’s he showed a fantastic ability to also play as a key defender,” Jones said.

The 194 centimetre key forward kicked 36 goals in the VFL last year.

“From what I have heard, Jacob had a really strong year in the VFL in 2022 and was unlucky not to break into the Melbourne side.

So, to see him get an opportunity early in the year is really exciting and a great reward,” he said.