As the excitement of the AFL Grand Final fades, clubs shift their focus to the highly anticipated 2024 Continental Tyres AFL Trade Period, which kicks off on October 7. David Walls, Fremantle’s Head of Player Personnel, recently shared insights into the club’s trade strategy, outlining potential avenues they may explore as the trade window approaches.
The upcoming trade period, spanning from October 7 to October 16, presents a significant opportunity for Fremantle. Walls expressed enthusiasm about their position, noting, “We’re fortunate to hold three first-round picks and pick 27.” He emphasized the strength of this year’s draft, highlighting the variety of players available who can fulfill different roles and address specific needs within the team.
Fremantle’s strategy will be guided by a commitment to long-term planning. Walls pointed out that several players, including Josh Treacy and Luke Jackson, are signed through 2028 or beyond, providing a solid foundation for the club. He praised the club’s culture, stating, “We’ve created an environment that our players truly believe in,” making it an attractive destination for new talent, especially for those from Eastern States looking to return to their roots in Western Australia.
In the realm of trade, Walls acknowledged the challenges of losing quality players but also recognized the opportunities that arise from such situations. For instance, the club’s decision to let Lachie Schultz go last year resulted in a valuable second-round pick, which contributed to the acquisition of promising talent like Cooper Simpson. “Our goal is to maximize the value of pick nine,” he asserted, demonstrating the club’s focus on strategic decision-making.
During the Continental Tyres AFL Trade Period, clubs can enhance their rosters through both trades and free agency. Walls emphasized the extensive groundwork laid before the draft, including thorough interviews to ensure they are acquiring committed individuals. “Every decision we make is with the club’s best long-term interests in mind,” he remarked, illustrating the careful consideration that drives their strategy.
As the free agency period kicks off on October 4 and the draft approaches on November 20-21, the landscape may shift, impacting the draft order. Walls and the Fremantle team are committed to navigating these complexities to build a competitive and sustainable future for the club.