Sandover Medallist Stunned at Prospect of AFL Opportunity

West Perth Captain Aaron Black has won a WAFL Premiership and a Sandover Medal but playing AFL had fallen off his radar.

That is until this week, when he was Drafted by the West Coast Eagles in the AFL Covid-19 Top Up Player Plan.

“I’m well and truly entrenched in the West Perth culture and what we’re trying to do at the footy club, so I’d given up my AFL dream a long time ago,” Black said.

The 29-year-old could never have forecast the changing face of AFL lists in 2022.

“Very surprised and I guess a little bit humbled.

It’s cool after such a long time in the WAFL to get an opportunity to potentially train with the Eagles,” he said.

Black says the WAFL is a great place to hone a player’s skills before entering the AFL.

“I think it’s the best competition outside the AFL.

It sets you up to achieve as much success as possible.

I’ve been in the system for 12 years or something like that, so in terms of being ready I don’t think I could be any more prepared.”

As for the physical demands.

“I think I’m as fit and healthy as I have been in the last few years.

I’m moving well at training at West Perth and just really looking forward to the chance to train at an AFL club.”

Black has paid tribute to the support he’s received from the Falcons over his possible move.

“Somebody in my position whose been at the club for such a long time, I think they know how much it would mean to me.

I’m excited to get a little bit of recognition for some hard work over a long period of time,” Black said.