Fremantle has filled its final list spot with VFL small forward Chris Scerri, adding a spark of potential to their forward line ahead of the 2026 AFL season. The 19-year-old has earned a rookie contract through the pre-season supplementary selection period (SSP), a pathway for players to demonstrate their worth after the draft period concludes.
The news, first reported by AFL.com.au, culminates a summer of training with the Dockers for Scerri, who arrived at the club in late November hoping to preserve his AFL dream alive. He initially had a train-on opportunity with Richmond, but ultimately chose to pursue the chance in Western Australia.
Scerri’s path to Fremantle wasn’t unopposed. He was invited to train with the club alongside young ruckman Zac Harding, but Harding’s trial period ended earlier this month, clearing the way for Scerri to secure the final list position. The decision highlights the competitive nature of securing a spot on an AFL roster, even during the SSP.
A Rising Talent from the VFL
Before joining Fremantle, Scerri made a name for himself in the Victorian Football League (VFL). Playing for the Northern Bullants, he quickly impressed with his goal-kicking ability and overall impact. In 2025, he was awarded the Bullants’ Best First Year Player award, signaling his potential for growth and success. Fremantle’s official announcement emphasized his impressive VFL campaign as a key factor in their decision.
Scerri’s arrival addresses a specific need for the Dockers: bolstering their small forward stocks. He’s described as a dynamic player with a knack for finding the goals, and his agility and speed are expected to add a recent dimension to Fremantle’s attacking options. The club believes his skillset complements their existing forward line, providing coach Justin Longmuir with greater flexibility.
Learning from a Veteran
Fremantle’s coaching staff has already identified a key mentor for Scerri: Sam Switkowski. According to Dockers footy boss Joe Brierty, Scerri has been closely observing Switkowski, absorbing insights into the team’s roles, structure, and overall game plan. “He’s sitting there listening to everything that Sam has to say,” Brierty told AFL.com.au earlier this month. “They’re probably similar players in the way that they move from an agility perspective and just the roles that they can play in the team.”
This mentorship is seen as crucial for Scerri’s development, providing him with a valuable resource to navigate the challenges of transitioning to the AFL. Development coach Chris Mayne and forwards coach Jaymie Graham are also playing key roles in his integration into the team. Scerri himself expressed his gratitude for the opportunity to learn from Switkowski, stating he’s eager to elevate his game under his guidance.
What Scerri Brings to the Dockers
Scerri’s strengths lie in his ability to take on the game with speed, agility, and a relentless work ethic. He’s not afraid to apply pressure, tackling opponents and forcing turnovers. He described his playing style as one that focuses on using his speed and run to create opportunities, whereas also contributing defensively. “I like taking the game on with my speed, run and agility. I also love a tackle and like to put pressure on my opponent to force turnovers,” Scerri said.
Fremantle’s Head of Player Personnel, David Walls, praised Scerri’s competitiveness and attitude, noting that he hasn’t “put a foot wrong” since joining the club. Walls highlighted Scerri’s physical attributes – speed, agility, and power – as well as his dedication to training. This positive assessment underscores the club’s confidence in Scerri’s potential to contribute to the team’s success.
The addition of Chris Scerri represents a calculated risk for Fremantle, but one they believe is worth taking. His dedication, combined with the guidance of experienced players and coaches, could observe him quickly become a valuable asset to the Dockers’ forward line. The club will be closely monitoring his progress throughout the pre-season and into the 2026 AFL season.
Fremantle will continue pre-season training and preparations for the 2026 season, with the first round of matches scheduled to begin in March. Further list updates and team selections will be announced by the club in the coming weeks. Fans can stay informed by visiting the official Fremantle Football Club website.
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