Family Fantasy Could Become Reality at Fremantle this Season

Hamish Brayshaw has become accustomed to twists and turns in his footy career.

This week, the 24-year-old was named by the Fremantle Dockers in their list of Covid-19 Top Up players.

“It was a bit unexpected, exciting and I was hoping there was a chance I’d get the call up.

But to get another opportunity, should it come about, really means a lot,” Brayshaw said.

Part of a famous footballing family, Brayshaw has just joined East Perth in the WAFL after playing one game in three seasons at the West Coast Eagles.

“I’ve been through the process of missing the Draft then being drafted, playing my first game then being De-Listed.

I’ve been through the ups and downs of football, but this was a different feeling because you’re there with a chance but it’s sort of contingent on something else happening, so it does feel a bit weird,” Brayshaw said.

Having Captained the Eagles in the WAFL and spent the AFLW season with West Coast as the club’s midfield coach, Brayshaw admits it’s strange to be linked to Fremantle but he’s eager to grasp the moment.

“I’m feeling as fit as I have since playing at West Coast and ready to go if the chance bobs up,” he said.

Taken by the Dockers with their fourth selection in Monday’s Draft, Brayshaw would love nothing more than to run out alongside his brother Andrew.

“I played a lot of football with him growing up.

We won a TAC Cup Premiership together; we played a lot of school footy together.

Since moving over here I’ve played him once in a practice game in 2018 and since then I’ve just been watching him develop and grow.

The chance, potentially to play alongside him, is something you pinch yourself over, but there’s a lot of water to go under the bridge yet,” Brayshaw said.

What isn’t in doubt is how well-prepared WAFL players are to enter the AFL.

“The WAFL has for a long time been a very high standard and there’s plenty of good players there.

If you’re thinking of making the step up to AFL you’re constantly tested.

For instance, if you’re playing Claremont then you could find yourself up against Sandover Medallist Bailey Rogers and it’s a great experience when you line up on these very good players,” Brayshaw said.