ADELAIDE – Willem Duursma is quickly proving that the faith West Coast placed in him as the No. 1 overall pick in the 2025 AFL Draft was well-founded. The 18-year-old has earned a Rising Star nomination for round three, capping a remarkable start to his AFL career and signaling a bright future for the rebuilding Eagles. The nomination comes on the heels of a thrilling two-point victory over Port Adelaide at Adelaide Oval, a game where Duursma showcased the talent that made him so highly sought after.
The Eagles’ win, secured after overcoming a daunting 29-point deficit, marked the first time the club has recorded consecutive victories since rounds six and seven of the 2024 season, according to the official AFL match report. Duursma’s individual performance against the Power was pivotal, amassing 20 disposals, six marks, four clearances, and kicking 1.3 – his most productive game to date. It’s a performance that has not only earned him individual recognition but also injected further optimism into a West Coast side undergoing a significant youth movement.
Through his first three games, Duursma has demonstrated a maturity beyond his years. He’s averaged over 16 disposals and a goal per game, quickly establishing himself as a key component of the Eagles’ forward line. His impact isn’t occurring in isolation. Duursma is benefiting from, and contributing to, a burgeoning group of young talent at West Coast, including Harley Reid, Cooper Duff-Tytler, Jobe Shanahan, and Archer Reid. This collective of promising players is providing a foundation for sustained success.
A Rising Tide of Talent at West Coast
The Eagles’ commitment to rebuilding through the draft is clearly bearing fruit. The arrival of Duursma, coupled with the development of existing young stars, has injected a new energy into the club. Shanahan, who earned a Rising Star nomination in round two after an impressive display against North Melbourne, exemplifies this trend. The Eagles are no longer relying solely on established veterans; they are building a team around a core of dynamic, exciting young players.
Duursma’s journey to this point hasn’t been without its challenges. He made his AFL debut in round one with a loss to Gold Coast, a baptism of fire for any young player. However, he quickly adapted, showcasing his resilience and determination. The subsequent victory over North Melbourne at Optus Stadium provided a taste of success, and the hard-fought win against Port Adelaide solidified his place in the team and earned him the coveted Rising Star nomination.
The Road to Adelaide Oval
The comeback against Port Adelaide was particularly significant. Trailing by 29 points, the Eagles displayed remarkable composure and grit to claw their way back into the contest. Duursma played a crucial role in the turnaround, using his speed and skill to create opportunities for his teammates. The win wasn’t just about the two points; it was a statement about the Eagles’ character and their belief in their ability to compete with the best teams in the league.
The Rising Star award, established in 1999, recognizes the most promising young players in the AFL. Previous winners include Dustin Martin, Patrick Dangerfield, and Josh Kelly – all players who have gone on to become stars of the competition. Duursma joins an exclusive group of nominees, and his nomination is a testament to his talent and potential.
2026 Telstra AFL Rising Star Nominees – A League-Wide Look
Here’s a look at the Rising Star nominees so far in the 2026 season:
- Opening Round: Leo Lombard (Gold Coast)
- Round one: Jagga Smith (Carlton)
- Round two: Jobe Shanahan (West Coast)
- Round three: Willem Duursma (West Coast)
Duursma’s nomination is a significant moment not only for him personally but also for the West Coast Eagles. It provides a tangible sign of progress in their rebuilding phase and offers hope for a brighter future. The club’s focus on developing young talent is clearly paying dividends, and Duursma is at the forefront of this exciting new era.
The Eagles will look to continue their momentum in round four against Collingwood at Marvel Stadium. Duursma’s performance will undoubtedly be closely watched as he continues to adapt to the demands of AFL football. The young star has already demonstrated his ability to perform under pressure, and he is poised to become a key player for the Eagles for years to come.
The West Coast Eagles’ schedule continues with a challenging stretch of games, providing ample opportunity for Duursma and his fellow young teammates to test themselves against the league’s best. Fans can locate the full AFL fixture and results on the official AFL website.
What does Duursma’s rapid rise mean for the future of the West Coast Eagles? The club’s focus remains on continued development and building a sustainable culture of success. The next confirmed checkpoint will be the release of the team’s mid-season report, expected in late June, which will provide a comprehensive assessment of their progress.
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