Ruckman Harry Barnett commits future to West Coast Eagles with 2-year deal - "This contract is a sign of their believing in me"

The West Coast Eagles have handed promising ruckman Harry Barnett a two-year contract extension. Barnett's contract was set to run out by the end of the season, but the Eagles have locked him in until the end of 2026.

Barnett, 20 was a pick No. 23 in the 2022 National Draft and has made two senior appearances since joining the footy club. He came on as a tactical sub last year against St Kilda on his AFL debut.

The young ruckman also featured in the Eagles' Round 2 clash with GWS Giants this season, recording six disposals, eight hitouts and two tackles before being taken off from the game.

Barnett expressed his excitement on signing a new contract, saying (via Zero Hanger):

"I'm really excited to develop my craft with the boys, and I really believe in what the club's offering, and they really believe in me, which is shown through this contract offering.

"I really like the unity of the younger boys, there's 21 or 22 of us under 22 and it's exciting to move forward with that group of boys.I haven't strung together the footy I would have liked. Last year, there was availability issues in the ones, and this year, I had an injury, which set me back for about four weeks or so."

Although he's yet to make his mark in the first team, Barnett believes this new contract is a show of trust from the club, which he hopes to repay.

"This contract is a sign of their believing in me although I haven't showed a lot on the track just yet, but hopefully that will come." he continued.

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Harry Barnet mentions legendary West Coast Eagles ruckman as one of his idols

Harry Barnett revealed three of his favorite ruckmen who he hopes to tailor his skill after.

After penning a two-year contract extension with the West Coast Eagles, Barnett admitted that the ruckman position is the hardest in footy. But he's honing his craft after players like fellow Eagles ruckman Matt Flyn, Western Bulldogs' Bailey Willams and legendary West Coast Eagles ruckman Ryan Turnbull.

"Ruck, I believe is the hardest position to play on the field, and learning that craft from Ryan Turnbull, Bailey Willimas and now Matt Flynn is really going to progress my development." he said.

Ryan Turnnbill Played for the West Coast Eagles between 1991 and 2001. He was the club's first-choice ruckman for much of the 1990s and was an integral member of their premiership-winning side in 1994.

Barnett has impressed during spells in the WAFL this year, averaging 7.2 disposals and 19.8 hitouts from six matches at the state league level.