Season preview - West Coast

Essential information
Coach: John Worsfold (11th season)
2011 season: 17 wins, 5 losses (4th overall)

Player changes
In: Ashton Hams, Josh Hill (from Western Bulldogs), Fraser McInnes, Murray Newman
Out: Brad Ebert, Brett Jones, Jordan Jones, Callum Wilson



Players to watch
Jack Darling: Another player who doesn't confine his work to game day, which is an impressive reputation to be building for a player still in his teens. A tall player who along with great marking and goal kicking prowess, has good defensive skills.
Beau Waters: Tough defender named as the club's vice-captain. Likes to combine leadership with a bit of on-field enforcer-ship. Had best season to date in 2011, including a career best game in the preliminary final loss to Geelong.

Questions to ask West Coast supporters:

• A few years on, what do you think of the Chris Judd trade?
• Dean Cox or Nick Naitanui?

Questions not to ask:

• Are you glad that with the addition of Gold Coast and GWS, you no longer have the worst club song?
• Are Eagles supporters the worst whingers? 

Prediction: West Coast were the surprise packet of last year, jumping from outside the top eight into the top four. They should definitely make the finals again due to their imposing record at home and improving form away from Subiaco. The Eagles may struggle to attain the heights of last season if they sustain any more injuries, and due to the fact that they are the hunted now and not the hunters. Top six.