Bolton says Western Australia is gearing up for one thing in February’s AFL Origin clash with Victoria — bragging rights.
Speaking on Thursday after nine new players were added to the Sandgropers squad — including Dockers teammates Jordan Clark and Luke Jackson — Bolton said pulling on WA’s traditional gold and black brings back the buzz of state under-18 footy.
“We want a packed house,” Bolton said. “It’s on our home deck here in WA, so we want as big a crowd as possible. I’ll probably end up matching up on someone like Sebba (Caleb Serong), who’s eligible for the Vics.
We want to take the bragging rights off them.”
Bolton said the early list of WA selections is already bursting with elite talent and blistering pace. Among the first 14 names revealed are a combined two Brownlow Medals, a Coleman Medal, eight premiership players, and 12 All-Australian nods — a résumé any Origin squad would envy.
“We’ve got a lot of speed in there,” he said. “And plenty of boys who’ve been on the big stage — like Charlie Cameron in grand finals.”
Bolton also highlighted the players he’s most excited to link up with, including former Richmond teammate Liam Baker and Carlton captain Patrick Cripps.
“I get to run out with Bakes again. And I’ve never played with Cripps — a Brownlow medallist and an absolute gun — so I’m really looking forward to that.”
The WA side will be led by Sydney senior coach Dean Cox, with Fremantle’s Justin Longmuir as his assistant. Victoria will be coached by Chris Scott, supported by Sam Mitchell.
Western Australia and Victoria will collide at Optus Stadium on Saturday, February 14.
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