WA under-16s defeat Peel in final hit-out ahead of National Champs

The State 16s produced an impressive performance against Peel Thunder colts in their final hit-out before the national championships.

The Black Swans defeated the Thunder by 52 points – 12.9 (81) to 4.5 (29) – at Lane Group Stadium in Mandurah on Saturday with several players catching the eye.

East Fremantle talent Hunter Hearn, who was captain on the day, was strong across half-back before moving into the midfield where he also had a big impact.

East Perth giant Axel Walsh, the younger brother of Port Adelaide’s Xavier Walsh, showed why he’s one of WA’s highest-rated prospects for the 2027 AFL draft, winning the ruck battle and showcasing his follow-up work around the ground.

Perth goalsneak Ashley Clayton and East Fremantle pair Noah Hannaford and Jayke Taylor all booted two goals apiece.

WA kick off their AFL National Under-16s Championship campaign against South Australia at HIF Health Insurance Oval in Joondalup on Saturday.

“We’ve had three good hit-outs in the lead-up to the championships,” WA under-16s head coach Michael Glassborow said.

“We’ve had really good preparation and we’re looking forward to testing ourselves against South Australia.”

Glassborow was excited about the depth and athletic ability in the squad.

“We’ve got a lot more depth through the whole squad,” he said.

“The athletic profile of the group and their ability to run is also exciting.”

West Perth tall Maxim Collins (broken fibula) and Swan Districts midfielder Taj Allan (back stress fractures) have been ruled out of the carnival due to injury.