Geelong and Melbourne were among the clubs eager to lure Jake Waterman away, but the key forward always had his heart set on staying at West Coast.
All-Australian forward Jake Waterman expressed relief after re-signing with West Coast through 2029. Previously contracted until the end of 2025 after inking a two-year deal in 2023, Waterman has now secured a new contract reportedly worth close to $1 million per season. This lucrative extension follows a breakout 2024 season where he kicked 53 goals in 20 games, cementing his status as one of the AFL’s premier forwards.
Waterman’s importance to West Coast has only increased with Jack Darling’s recent trade to North Melbourne. Despite strong interest from Melbourne and Geelong, Waterman, the son of two-time West Coast premiership winner Chris Waterman, remained committed to the Eagles.
“It’s an honour to sign a long-term contract at a great club like West Coast,” Waterman said in a statement. “There’s been speculation for a few months, but I’m glad it’s finally done. It’s a massive weight off my shoulders, and I’m thrilled to be locked in here for the next five years.”
Jake Waterman’s career was at a crossroads in 2023 after being diagnosed with ulcerative colitis, a chronic inflammatory bowel disease. Despite the setback, he returned to the 2024 pre-season in arguably the best shape of his career, which led to his breakout campaign.
Now, with his new long-term contract in hand, Waterman is focused on helping rebuild West Coast back to its former glory, reminiscent of the success his father, Chris Waterman, experienced during the Eagles’ dominance in the 1990s.
“I’ve grown up walking the halls of family homes with Eagles colors all over the walls,” Waterman said. “Although there was speculation earlier in the year, I always had my heart set on staying here.”
Next season, Waterman will team up with Oscar Allen in West Coast’s attack, with rising stars Jack Williams and Archer Reid also pushing to secure spots in the forward line as part of the club’s next generation of key players.