Rory Sloane, a renowned figure in the Adelaide Crows, has expressed his frustration over the prospect of former number one AFL draft pick, Harley Reid, possibly leaving West Coast just three years after joining the club. Sloane believes that the AFL’s adjustments to draft regulations, which now require top-20 picks—like Reid—to sign three-year contracts, are insufficient to prevent early departures.
Even prior to Reid’s arrival in Perth, speculation was rife regarding his potential desire to return to Victoria, his home state, as soon as his contract with West Coast concludes in 2026. This “go-home factor” poses a constant challenge for clubs outside Victoria, with reports suggesting that Victorian teams consider Reid a likely candidate to make the move back home.
Sloane’s comments highlight his irritation with the idea that high draft picks have the option to leave so soon into their careers. He advocates for a mandatory commitment of at least four to five years, allowing players to fully integrate and establish themselves within the club environment before considering a departure.
Having relocated from Victoria to Adelaide after being drafted in 2008, Sloane dedicated his entire 255-game career to the Crows, ultimately serving as their captain. Reflecting on his experience, he advised West Coast on ways to retain Reid beyond his contract term, suggesting that they encourage his family and friends to visit him in Perth regularly. Sloane recounted how visits from his own family and friends fostered a sense of belonging and connection to the club, which could similarly benefit Reid.
The article concludes with an anticipation of Reid’s debut, as he and the West Coast Eagles prepare to kick off their premiership season against the Gold Coast Suns in Perth on Sunday.