The Fremantle Dockers built their 2026 Grand Final list primarily through the national draft without father-son or academy boosts, assembling a nucleus over thirteen years since their last appearance on the premiership stage in 2013, according to analysis by Fox Footy’s Leigh Montagna.
The Pure Draft Foundation of Fremantle’s List Build
Fremantle constructed its squad using early draft picks as the foundation, avoiding concessional picks or rival-poached superstars until the core was firmly established. According to Fox Footy reporting, list manager David Walls and his team built the group from the ground up. Key pillars include captain Alex Pearce from the 2013 national draft, alongside Luke Ryan and Brennan Cox who arrived via the 2016 intake. Midfield depth followed with Andy Brayshaw selected at pick two in 2017, followed by Hayden Young and Caleb Serong as the seventh and eighth overall selections in 2019.
The Impact of the 2021 Draft Class on the Grand Final Side
The 2021 national and rookie drafts added critical depth and star power as Fremantle prepared for the Grand Final. The Dockers secured key forward Jye Amiss alongside midfielders Neil Erasmus and Matthew Johnson with three selections inside the top 21, while Karl Worner arrived as a rookie pick. All four players feature in the senior side, with Amiss establishing himself as a spearhead in attack, Worner anchoring the defence, and Erasmus and Johnson rotating through the wings and midfield. Erasmus noted that the group bonded during early stints playing for Peel Thunder in the WAFL, where several members secured a state league premiership together.
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Resilience and Trade Additions Complete the Puzzle
Once the foundational draft nucleus was set, Fremantle executed major trade acquisitions by bringing in Western Australian stars Luke Jackson and Shai Bolton from Victoria. Following a qualifying final loss to Hawthorn, the young squad built resilience through September. Erasmus pointed to the team’s ability to bounce back with two solid finals performances as evidence of the group’s physical conditioning and belief heading into the match against Brisbane at the MCG.
Frequently Asked Questions
How was Fremantle’s list primarily built?
Fremantle built its list through the national draft without relying on father-son selections, academy boosts, or concessional picks, before adding high-profile traded players later.
Who oversees Fremantle’s player recruitment?
David Walls serves as Fremantle’s head of recruiting and player personnel, having worked within the club’s list department since 2008.
Which players arrived from the 2021 draft class?
Jye Amiss, Neil Erasmus, Matthew Johnson, and rookie-list addition Karl Worner were all secured by Fremantle in the 2021 intake.
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