A shock AFL comeback? A former Blue is vying for a spot with the Bulldogs, and it’s a move that’s turning heads!
Will White, who previously played for Carlton, is now getting a golden opportunity to secure a coveted list spot with the Western Bulldogs. This comes after the unexpected retirement of James Harmes just last week, which has opened up a crucial vacancy on their roster.
Here's where it gets interesting: Reports indicate that White has been invited to train with the Bulldogs this week. He's not alone in this pursuit; he'll be joining Will Lewis, a product of the Bulldogs' own VFL program, as they both compete for this vacant position. The deadline for signing players during the pre-season supplementary selection period (SSP) is fast approaching on March 2, making this a high-stakes period for both players.
White was himself an SSP signing for the Blues last year, managing to play 14 senior games before being delisted at the end of the season. He was then invited back to Carlton to train for a list spot, even training alongside Elijah Hollands over the summer. However, the Blues ultimately decided to release him last week, opting instead to give Wade Derkson, a former Greater Western Sydney utility, a training opportunity.
But here's the part most people miss: Now, the Bulldogs have stepped in, offering White a chance to impress alongside Lewis. They are both battling it out for the very spot left open by Harmes' departure. It’s a classic case of one player's misfortune becoming another’s opportunity.
Let's talk about Will Lewis for a moment. At 26 years old, he's a 194cm utility who was a key part of the Dogs' VFL premiership win last season. He played an impressive 19 games in the VFL last year, adding to his five seasons in the competition. He even managed to kick 40 goals in the VFL last season, including two crucial goals in the Grand Final! Talk about making an impact!
The Bulldogs are gearing up for some important pre-season matches. They'll be participating in a match simulation on Thursday against Sydney, followed by a clash with Hawthorn in the AAMI Community Series on February 27. These games will be crucial for White and Lewis to showcase their talents.
Now, here’s a thought-provoking question for you: Is it fair for players who have been delisted to get these second chances, or should list spots exclusively go to emerging talent? What are your thoughts on this competitive training environment? Let us know in the comments below!
