West Coast Defender Requests Trade to Hawthorn
West Coast Eagles defender Tom Barrass has requested a trade to Hawthorn, sending shockwaves through the AFL world. The 28-year-old, who has played 150 games for the Eagles and won a premiership in 2018, is contracted until the end of 2027 but has expressed his desire to play for the Hawks.
Barrass, who is known for his strong marking and defensive capabilities, has been a key player for West Coast, but his departure would be a significant loss for the club. He was the Eagles' best-and-fairest in 2022 and has been a consistent performer over his eight seasons at the club.
The move to Hawthorn is likely to see Barrass reunited with former teammate and current Hawks coach Sam Mitchell. The two played together at West Coast, and Mitchell was also an assistant coach at the club before taking over the head coaching role at Hawthorn.
Barrass's Departure a Blow for West Coast
The news of Barrass's trade request comes as a blow to West Coast, who are currently in a rebuilding phase. The club is looking to build a young and exciting team for the future, and Barrass was seen as a key part of that. His departure could leave a big hole in the Eagles' defense, but the club is confident that they can find a way to fill it.
The Eagles have released a statement saying that they respect Barrass's decision and will work to meet his request while protecting the best interests of the club. "Tom has today informed us of his desire to pursue an opportunity at another club," general manager of football Gavin Bell said in a statement. "While the club respects Tom's request, he is contracted for another three seasons and our vice-captain. We will endeavour to meet Tom's request while protecting the best interests of the West Coast Eagles."
Hawthorn's Gain
The Hawks, on the other hand, will be delighted to have secured the services of one of the AFL's best defenders. Barrass would be a valuable addition to their team, and his experience and leadership would be a welcome addition to their already impressive squad.
A New Chapter for Barrass
Barrass's trade request marks a new chapter in his career. He is looking for a fresh start at a club that is on the rise. The Hawks are a team with a bright future, and Barrass is hoping to play a role in their success.
Barrass's departure from West Coast will be a significant loss for the club, but his decision is a testament to his ambition and his desire to win a premiership with a team that is ready to challenge for the title. The Hawks have made a bold move in securing the services of one of the AFL's best defenders, and their fans will be excited to see what Barrass can do in the brown and gold.
Trade Period
The 2024 AFL Trade Period will begin on October 7, and is expected to be a busy one, with several other players expected to be traded.
The West Coast Eagles are committed to ensuring that they can compete for a premiership in the near future, and the club is confident that they will be able to build a strong team that will be able to challenge for the title in the years to come.
The trade period is a time of change in the AFL, as clubs try to improve their squads for the next season. This year's trade period is likely to be a busy one, with several high-profile players expected to be traded. The trade period is always a source of excitement and speculation for fans, and this year is no different. The trade period will be a busy one, with clubs looking to make moves to improve their squads for the 2025 season.
