AAMI Rookies: Ten young guns to catch the eye in first half of WAFL season

We take a look at 10 prominent young guns, aged 21 and under, to catch the eye during the first half of the Sullivan Logistics WAFL season.

Leo Steed (Swan Districts, 18)

From missing out on State 18s selection last year to being a league regular for Swan Districts in 2026, Leo Steed has enjoyed a rapid rise.

The Bunbury product has taken to senior footy like a duck to water, playing some important roles for the Black Ducks, both in the midfield and up forward.

His second half in Swan Districts’ come-from-behind victory over Perth at Steel Blue Oval was something special, changing the game after moving into the midfield with 14 second-half disposals.

Lucas Robinson (South Fremantle, 18)

Another member of the AAMI WA Football State 18s leadership group, Robinson’s work as an inside midfielder for the reigning champs has been impressive.

Making his league debut in Round 1, the Lake Grace product starred on debut against Swan Districts and played every game until he was required for WA duties.

The midfield bull’s draft stocks have risen after showcasing his ability to match it with the big boys.

Jasper Peace (Claremont, 20)

How is this guy not on an AFL list?

The emerging Claremont key defender should consider himself unlucky to have missed out in the recent Mid-Season Draft after attracting interest from multiple clubs.

He’s fast becoming one of the most reliable stoppers in the competition and is regularly tasked with some of the toughest assignments in the business.

Watch this space.

Jasper Peace looks destined for the next level. Credit: Jason Clark

Oskar Smartt (East Fremantle, 20)

It’s easy to forget that Smartt is just 20 years old, such is his impact for the Sharks in his first season in the WAFL.

The former Essendon rookie has been one of the recruits of the season, showing the ability to win games off his own boot and be a real x-factor as a livewire half-forward who can pinch hit in the midfield.

Don’t be surprised if he wins the EGT Goal of the Year.

Frazer Rickson (Subiaco, 19)

The 19-year-old has shown excellent fight in the ruck this season against bigger, stronger opponents including several current and former AFL-listed big men.

To do what he’s doing at his age is no easy feat and he’s produced some eye-catching performances along the way.

Earned State 18s selection as an over-ager this year after missing out last year due to an untimely broken leg and booted two goals in his State debut last weekend.

Blake Kelly (Swan Districts, 19)

After missing out on his AFL Draft dreams last year, Kelly has bounced back to force his way into Swan Districts’ senior side.

He was among his team’s best in a winning debut against Perth in Round 8 and improved on that performance in his second game to finish with a team-high 28 disposals.

His work ethic, hunger at the contest and composure by foot have really stood out.

William Tilbee (Perth, 18)

Tilbee has steadily improved in his first season of league footy after making his debut in Round 4 against East Perth.

The strong-bodied midfielder-forward knows how to find the footy, can hit the scoreboard and is excellent at the defensive stuff.

Had his best game at senior level in the Demons’ upset win over Claremont at the weekend, booting two goals from 17 disposals to go with seven tackles and five marks.

Elijah Scoble (Perth, 20)

Scoble is remarkably nearing his 50th senior WAFL appearance and is still only 20 years old.

He’s been a reliable defender for several years already, is a great size and has excellent closing speed.

Like Peace, is an impressive young key back who deserves a look in at the next level.

Jake Soutar (East Perth, 19)

After making his league debut last season and playing just the one game at the level, Soutar has cemented his spot in the Royals’ back six in 2026.

The 19-year-old has a great set of hands, is a good size at 190cm and has become a consistent performer for East Perth.

Luke Carrello (East Fremantle, 18)

Carrello has enjoyed a bright start to his senior WAFL career after making his debut as a 17-year-old last year.

Dealt with injury issues last season which saw him unable to feature for the State 18s but has bounced back really well to become a senior regular at the Sharks.

The hard-running teen does his best work on the wing, averaging 18.4 disposals per game.

This article was brought to you by AAMI, naming rights partner of WA Football’s Talent Program