Falcons' Country Academy program launches in MerredinWednesday, May 21, 2025 - 11:01 AM

West Perth Football Club hosted their first Country Academy session at Merredin Oval earlier this month.

More than 60 athletes, spread across our Regional Zone all converged together to put themselves to the test.

Country Academy Head Coach, Luke Richardson, along with current colts-listed player Riley Groves led the group for a 90-minute session, with players from Corrigin, Merredin, Bruce Rock, Kulin, Mukinbudin, Tammin, Kelleberrin and Bencubbin taking part.

The Falcons’ Country Academy is open to girls and boys aged 12-17 living in the club’s country zone. 

“To have such a broad range of ages come together from across our great region was pleasing to see,” West Perth’s Head of Female Football and Talent Pathways, Luke Richardson, said.

“Their application to the standards we want to set and their commitment to each other to want to be the best they can be was evident for all to see.”

There will be several more in-person sessions, including next Wednesday (May 28), as well as on June 18, July 16 and August 13.

One session will feature a visit from Fremantle great Roger Hayden several other Dockers’ Next Generation Academy staff members.

In addition, there’s two dial-in sessions – one focussing on leadership and values-driven behaviour and the second run by the club’s strength-and-conditioning coach which highlights the importance of hydration, nutrition and recovery.

“Our football club recognised the significance the region provides and it’s important that we continue to invest people and resources in the region so it continues to prosper,” Richardson said.

“We’ve had a lot of talented players come through the region including the Longmuirs (Justin and Troy), Mark Seaby and the Downsboroughs (Ian and Jack).

“Then we’ve got current players Darcy Dixon and Riley Sprigg playing regular senior football and Riley’s younger brother Zac also in the program.

“Kaden Alcock (Nungarin) and Ben Dickinson (Merridin) played the last two Futures Games for West Perth this season which was a real positive.

“Then there’s Ambrose McGrath from Merredin who is part of the Dockers’ NGA program.”