Activ WA Day Game Heads to NorthamThursday, May 30, 2024 - 11:44 AM

The Wheatbelt town of Northam is preparing for its biggest weekend of football in years as Perth hosts the West Coast Eagles in the Activ WA Day Round WAFL match at Henry Street Oval on Sunday.

Only percentage separates the sides on the WAFL ladder with the Demons coming off a narrow loss to the Sharks while the Eagles are chasing back to back wins for the first time 2021.

Northam boasts a rich history of producing football talent both past and present.

Among those to come from the area include Norm Smith Medallist Bobby Hill, Eagles great Darren Glass, former Hawthorn star Chance Bateman and ex Magpies small forward Leon Davis.

Perth President Adrian Barich wants to continue to build partnerships with regional areas in WA.

"This initiative underscores our dedication to bringing the excitement of footy directly to the people,” Barich said.

For years, Perth Football Club has served as a launchpad for aspiring footballers from the region, nurturing talent that has gone on to excel at both the WAFL and AFL levels."

Luke Sanders, Head of WAFL competitions at the WAFC, has praised those who’ve helped organise the day.

“There has been a lot of enthusiasm within the community for a WAFL match,” Sanders said.

“This match would not occur without the outstanding support of the Shire of Northam, the Avon FNL, Federals and Railways FC’s, together with other partners including Sullivan Logistics, DLGSC, Celebrate WA, Boekeman Machinery, CUB, West Coast Eagles and Perth Football Clubs”.

“The WAFL match in Northam has also provided opportunities for school clinics, coaching and umpiring courses, talent development and local junior training sessions and Auskick matches”

Sanders is a supporter of taking WAFL matches outside the metropolitan area.

“The WAFC is committed to showcasing WAFL matches in regional areas, creating engagement with the local community beyond just a football match,” Sanders said.

“The weekend also provides opportunities for school clinics, coaching and umpiring courses, talent training sessions, local junior football training and Auskick matches.”

In a bid to help grow participation in female football a women’s exhibition match featuring players from the newly formed Wheatbelt Wolves will be played following the WAFL game.

Players are listed below: