Son of a gun hopes to finish Cummings-of-age season with a flag

Two years after missing out on featuring for the Black Ducks Colts in a grand final, son of a gun Harley Cummings is eagerly awaiting his opportunity to play in a premiership decider at Optus Stadium.

The son of Coleman Medallist and former AFL sharpshooter Scott will feature for Swan Districts’ Reserves side as the Swans look to cap off a standout season with a win over West Perth in the first game on WAFL Grand Final Day on Sunday from 9.45am.

The emerging Swan Districts key-position player, 18, only has to go back to his Colts season in 2024 to know how hard it is to make a grand final team.

“I missed out on playing in the Colts Grand Final back in 2024, so getting another chance to play is something I won’t take for granted,” Cummings said.

“It’s a special feeling. The thought of getting to play on Optus in a grand final is awesome.” It has been a breakout season for the teenager, who became the third-generation Cummings to make his senior debut for the club against Subiaco in round 12.

It was the first of four League appearances for the talented 196cm key forward, who has also played as a key defender and pinch hitter in the ruck. “It’s been a huge learning opportunity for me this year, supported by many of the coaches at Swans in all kinds of ways,” Cummings said.

“I’ve been lucky enough to play through most positions this year, developing my game in every way possible. “The step-up between Colts and Reserves was massive in my eyes.

“You’re playing bigger bodies in a faster-paced game where mistakes are more impactful.

Harley Cummings takes a hanger against East Perth during the WAFL Reserves finals series. Credit: Michael Farnell/Sports Imagery

“I’ve loved every bit of it, though. To play at a higher level is awesome _ it drives you to get better and better.” Cummings had the chance to play for Swan Districts or Subiaco, given his junior club Sorrento-Duncraig was in the Lions’ zone.

He said it meant the world to become the fourth member of his family to play for the Black Ducks, carrying on a proud history, and even more special to wear the No. 33 made famous by his father, thanks to a selfless gesture from teammate Lucas Impey.

“It means the world to wear the same jumper that not only my Dad but my Pa (Ross Parker), Uncle (Brendan Parker) and many family friends have worn,” Cummings said.

“I’ve grown up listening to Dad talk about ‘the mighty Black Ducks’, never truly understanding the meaning and passion behind it. It’s now that I understand the passion, it’s not only a footy club, but it’s also a second home with a whole family around it. “The opportunity to play League is something I’ll never take for granted and sharing the moment with Dad is a privilege.

“The club means so much to Dad because it’s where his footy career started.

“Now it’s my turn to create my own experiences here. With my debut game, Lucas Impey made the selfless call to give me Dad’s old playing number too, showcasing the support at the club. I now get to wear it with pride every game thanks to Lucas.”

Cummings, who kicked two goals in his side’s second semi-final win over East Perth to help the minor premier reach the Grand Final, highlighted the influence of his father on his football career.

“Dad has been with me through every single step of my footy journey,” he said.

“I wouldn’t be where I am today without him. Starting at my local club in Melbourne, where he coached, to now having set shots with him pre-game.

“He’s a regular face at the club, getting involved with goalkicking on Thursday nights pre-training. Not only do I enjoy having him there, but so do the other boys.”

Scott Cummings presented his son Harley with his jumper on debut.

Cummings called on the well-supported Swan Districts army to come out in force for the club’s “massive” final game of 2026.

“It’s massive. This is what the whole group has been chasing since pre-season back in November, so to get the opportunity and do it on Optus makes it even more special,” he said.

“Knowing how well supported this club is, having a full Swans army behind us on the day would mean everything. There’s no better way to cap off the season.”

So what makes this Swan Districts side so special? “We’ve got a group of boys that genuinely care for one another, and there’s excitement and energy on and off the field that creates such a strong culture,” Cummings said.

“It’s impossible to pick anyone out. Everyone has played a role throughout the season, getting us to where we are now.

“Our best footy is selfless. It’s not about playing for ourselves but the others who aren’t playing, the staff sacrificing their time and the fans who support us non-stop.”

Sullivan Logistics WAFL Reserves Grand Final

Swan Districts v West Perth

9.45am, Sunday, September 20

Optus Stadium