West Coast Eagles star Jake Waterman admits feeling pressure ahead of 2025 season following breakout year

West Coast star Jake Waterman admits he is feeling the pressure going into 2025 following a breakout season that saw him earn All-Australian honours last year. But the 26-year-old says the added expectation will not change how he goes about his footy, declaring he won’t chase “numbers and stats” this season. Waterman kicked 53 goals in 20 games last year, eclipsing his previous career-best of 18, to be recognised as one of the elite forwards in the competition in a bottom-four side. He is likely to have more of a target on his back as opposing teams look to quell his impact this year, but the 104-gamer said he was unfazed. “I’ve just got to stay true to myself and go through the processes I went through last year,” Waterman told The West Australian. “My work rate and my contest stuff is something that’s going to keep me in good stead to have good performances and play my role for the team.” The 192cm spearhead picked up where he left off with a game-high four goals in West Coast’s pre-season win over North Melbourne in Bunbury on Saturday. Waterman says he won’t be motivated by his tally each week. “Whether I kick goals... or don’t kick goals, I want to be a leader out there. I want to be a consistent target for my team and create contests ahead of the footy,” he said. “Whatever is to come, I’m not too concerned about numbers and stats.” Waterman also praised the efforts of second-year forward Archer Reid, who was given an opportunity with co-captain Oscar Allen unavailable due to a family wedding. The 20-year-old, who kicked 17 majors for the club’s reserves side last year, failed to register a goal but Waterman was impressed by his attitude. “I thought he worked into the game really well. I think early, as it is for a lot of young players, when you’re not getting many looks, it can be a little bit rattling,” Waterman said. “But he had a few shots at goal in the last quarter and like myself, I think he started to cramp up a little bit. “You can just tell by his frame and his height, that when he puts a bit more muscle on and starts understanding the game and what’s required at the top level, he’s going to be such an option for us ahead of the footy. “He learnt a lot (from Saturday’s game) and he’s one of those guys who is right in the frame to play round one.”