Because the draft was so even after the first 20 selections, West Coast used the draft to engage in some "list balance" and to address some needs. And with no absolute stand-out players available, the Eagles decided to draft local players to eliminate the 'go-home' factor.
What the recruiter said
"Everyone's happy on draft day, but if you'd have given us the option going in of two local boys and the types of players they are and what they add, we would have taken that beforehand." West Coast list manager, Rohan O'Brien.
Pick 23: Murray Newman, Swan Districts
O'Brien says: "His consistency of footy over the last two years has been a feature. He's just that type of player who would add something to us with his speed and his kicking."
Pick 28: Fraser McInnes, Perth
O'Brien says: "Fraser is a tall guy who we think has terrific skills but what stands out is his workrate and his consistency. Missed a lot of footy this year but was still able to force his way into the Perth senior team."
Pick 63: Ashton Hams, rookie upgrade
