Walsh Joins Power in Rookie Draft

The East Perth Football Club is elated to be having another talent joining the big leagues and representing the Royals at AFL level. 

Key forward Xavier Walsh was picked up by Port Adelaide with selection 13, taken by the Power with their sole pick in last week’s rookie draft. 

Although Walsh had hopes of being picked up in the draft, it still came as a surprise to get the call from Port Adelaide. 

“I actually thought it was a scammer on the phone!” He said. “But it turned out to be Ken Hinkley.” 

When asked if he had any indication he was going to Port, he said “absolutely not.”  

“I’d only spoken to them once throughout the year, so I didn’t really think I’d be going there. But I’m really keen.” 

“Mum is actually down south right now for school camp so she was in hysterics over the phone. They’re really really proud, really happy.” Xavier said of his parent's reactions. “They were really proud. It was good to hear from them.” 

Coming from our district through junior club Mt Lawley Inglewood JFC, Walsh played Futures and was part of East Perth’s Colts program in 2023, kicking 13 goals across 8 games. He has also represented the state at u-16 and u-18 level, where he claimed 4 marks and kicked a goal in his latest outing with the state team. 

Which current AFL player would he compare his game style to? 

“Probably Jeremy Cameron – left footer, key position player.” 

Walsh is most looking forward to the opportunity to learn from experienced AFL players at Port, saying his priority would be “picking the more experienced player’s brains, learning as much as much as I can and developing into kind of a key position player.” 

He is also excited to experience what South Australia has to offer, saying he can’t wait for “the opportunities, (and the) really good culture over there. There’s a couple of WA boys over there so really keen to meet them.” 

As for what he will miss most about East Perth? “Everything,” Walsh said. “The brotherhood, the coaches, the boys, the weekly banter. I’ll miss everything.” 
 
We know our members, fans, and playing group will miss him too, and wish Walshy the best of luck with the Power!