In a significant development for the West Coast Eagles, the club announced on Monday that Luke Foley will not be offered a new contract, effectively ending his tenure with the team. Drafted with pick 31 in the 2018 AFL Draft, Foley has played a total of 32 games for the Eagles. Despite a promising start to his career, including 16 appearances last year, Foley’s role diminished in 2023. After a solid block of games earlier this year, he was only fielded once after Round 13.
Gavin Bell, the general manager of football for West Coast, confirmed the news in an official statement. “We have just begun the process of making some tough calls, and we have advised Luke that we do not see him as part of the future,” Bell said. He acknowledged Foley’s contributions over the last five years and wished him success in his future endeavors.
This decision comes after a disappointing season for the West Coast Eagles, who finished at the bottom of the ladder with a 3-20 win-loss record. Foley’s delisting is part of a broader restructuring within the club, which is looking to make significant changes to its roster. The Eagles currently hold five picks inside 54 at the upcoming 2023 AFL Draft, signaling a potential focus on young talent.
Foley is the first player to be delisted by the club this year, but he is not the only one leaving. Veteran stars Shannon Hurn, Nic Naitanui, and Luke Shuey have also announced their retirements, marking the end of an era for the team. Reports last week suggested that Isiah Winder had also been delisted, although this has not been officially confirmed.
The departure of Foley and other key players indicates a transitional phase for the West Coast Eagles. As the club prepares for the 2023 AFL Draft and beyond, all eyes will be on how they rebuild and restructure to improve their standing in the league.
