Harley Reid wins West Coast best and fairest amid disciplinary scrutiny

West Coast Eagles star Harley Reid has been named the club’s best and fairest winner, beating Jake Waterman and Tim Kelly for the award. Reid averaged 24.6 disposals and 13.4 contested possessions per game during the season.

Reid addressed his aggressive playing style and the resulting disciplinary issues, noting he set a record for free kicks conceded in the AFL era. He expressed frustration with what he termed the ‘WA tax,’ suggesting he feels targeted by officiating, but stated he intends to maintain his aggressive approach. Reid will miss the first two rounds of next season due to a two-match ban for a sling tackle.

In related news, Hawthorn’s Nick Watson reacted to a ‘No Wizards Allowed’ headline on The West Australian’s back page ahead of the qualifying final against Fremantle. Watson noted that Reid had shared the image with him and described the coverage as ‘a good laugh’ as he prepares for the match at Optus Stadium.