Seven Sharks named in State Squad

The Sharks impressive start to the season has been heightened, following the selection of seven East Fremantle players in the WAFL State Squad.

Liam Anthony, Brock O’Brien, Andrew Stephen, Matthew Watson, Brett Peake, Jamie McNamara and George Hampson have been named in the initial 41-player squad.

In an interview with Sport FM coach Rob Wiley was excited for the boys.

“It’s great that we’ve got seven guys and obviously its only a squad at the moment but from a personal experience, playing for state was really outstanding and if these 7 guys get a chance we’ll certainly support it,” Wiley said. 

At least one player is selected from every team, however the Sharks along with the ladder leaders, Subiaco and South Fremantle, have the most representatives.

The WAFL State Team will face Tasmania on the 11th of June at Steel Blue Oval.

Brett Peake’s strong return to the WAFL has earned him a spot on the team.  Peake is the front-runner for the Bernie Naylor Medal, currently sharing the top spot with Subiaco’s Hamish Shepheard with 22 goals so far this season.

Liam Anthony was the only Shark to play in last year’s State Team. He is the leading disposal winner for the club and is currently ranked sixth in the competition averaging .

Racking up 37 disposals against Perth last week, Brock O’Brien’s top form has more than earned him a spot in the team. He is joined by fellow defender and  veteran State WAFL player Andrew Stephen. Stephen represented the side from 2012-2014 and has once again been recognized for his defensive capabilities.

Matthew Watson’s first year with the Sharks is to set be a memorable one, following his selection in WAFL state team.  Watson joined the Sharks after being delisted by Carlton in 2015 and has worked well up forward with another Sharks forward in George Hampson who has also been named. George Hampson’s consistent performance and goal kicking ability cemented his position in the team. Hampson played for the State team in 2014, during his time with Subiaco.

Jamie McNamara also represented the WAFL State Team in 2014.  The East Fremantle skipper’s versatility has seen him play all over the ground in 2016, an asset that will of no doubt be of interest to selectors. 

Cameron Eardley unfortunately missed out on this year’s selection, due to an ankle injury.

The team will again be coached by Darren Harris, who led the WAFL to a 44-point victory over the SANFL in last year’s State Game. 

The WAFL squad will train four times in the lead-up to the game, with a final training session and jumper presentation to be held at Steel Blue Oval on Thursday, June 9.

Carlton Draught State Squad Announced

The Club wishes the players all the best