"High Stakes for Fremantle and Rebuilding Challenges for West Coast in AFL Season 2025"

Heading into the AFL's 2025 season, Western Australia's two teams are navigating significantly different paths. For the Fremantle Dockers, expectations have never been higher. Last year's move to trade three first-round draft picks to secure Richmond star Shai Bolton highlights their aggressive stance. After a disappointing 2024 campaign, this season must see Fremantle convert its potential into substantial results.

Last year the Dockers appeared certain to secure a top-four finish but dramatically collapsed in the final rounds, slipping from third to ninth amid injuries and inconsistent form. Critical injuries hit important players like captain Alex Pearce, ruckman Sean Darcy, and goal-scorer Josh Treacy toward the end of the season, heavily impacting their finals aspirations. Darcy's ongoing fitness remains an ongoing concern, with former Dockers captain Peter Bell warning that management should expect only 12 to 15 games per season from him due to his injury history.

The acquisition of Bolton is a sign that Fremantle believes their current lineup is nearly ready to compete for a premiership. Bolton, who excelled as both a goal-kicker and midfielder, offers the creativity and unpredictability the Dockers need. Yet management faces difficult selection choices regarding veterans like Nat Fyfe and Michael Walters due to rising, youthful midfield and forward talent. For coach Justin Longmuir, pressure is mounting to deliver tangible results and at least two finals matches; otherwise, questions over his leadership may intensify.

Contrasting with Fremantle's situation, the West Coast Eagles find themselves in a critical, transitionary year. Following three grim seasons and Adam Simpson's departure, newly appointed coach Andrew McQualter faces the tough challenge of steering the team back toward competitiveness. To aid this revival, West Coast recruited veteran players in their mid-20s, such as experienced premiership players Liam Baker and Jack Graham from Richmond and reliable Carlton goal-scorer Matt Owies.

Despite losing established figures like Tom Barrass and Jack Darling, West Coast sees an opportunity for several young talents—including Elijah Hewett, Harley Reid, and new recruit Bo Allen—to step forward, although injury concerns remain. Additionally, uncertainty surrounding co-captain Oscar Allen's future and potential departure could significantly impact club morale and direction.

For fans and critics alike, the key assessment for the Eagles this season is seeing consistent effort and evident direction on the field. Demonstrating an ability to play exciting football—even if prone to mistakes in implementing a more attacking style—will offer supporters valuable optimism toward sustained improvement in the coming years.