Here are three things we saw from Monday’s match simulation

In hot Monday morning conditions, Fremantle’s AFL side split into two teams, playing four 15-minute quarters across the morning. Here are three things we observed from the match simulation:

1. Intensity

Despite the hot conditions, the playing group did not hold back, with relentless gut running and heavy tackles on display from the outset.

Pat Voss, Andrew Brayshaw, Hayden Young, Cooper Simpson, Jordan Clark and many more laid big tackles to win the ball back for their respective sides, with the pace and intensity of the game not wavering for the entire four quarters.

The intensity, despite the challenging weather, set the tone for the preseason ahead and demonstrates the eagerness of the playing group to get stuck into the 2025 season.

2. A learning experience for new faces

Fremantle’s newest recruits were put through their paces in match simulation, matching up against some of the Club’s more experienced players.

Father-son recruit Jaren Carr featured on the wing, spending time alongside both Jaeger O’Meara and Michael Frederick.

Young ruckman Aiden Riddle was put to the test, going head-to-head with Liam Reidy at several centre bounces and stoppages around the ground. He even took on the matchup of captain Alex Pearce when Riddle moved forward.

Meanwhile, Fremantle’s highest draft selection, Murphy Reid, battled with Cooper Simpson as he floated through the midfield and forward line.

Trade acquisition Shai Bolton showed his craft in the forward line, with Heath Chapman keeping a close eye on the electric speedster.

3. Next Generation Academy joins training

Seven members of Fremantle’s Stephen Hill 18’s squad from the Next Generation Academy (NGA) enjoyed a special, up-close-and-personal experience, training alongside the men’s senior playing list.

Toby Whan, Basil Hart, Ryan Bizzell, Josh Nomlatyu, Rhama Evans, Oliver McManus, and Jonah Klemke participated in several warm-up and training drills, rubbing shoulders with some of the Club’s best players before the playing group transitioned into match simulation.

The NGA squad then worked through additional drills with Fremantle’s development and assistant coaches on the sidelines, gaining valuable insight into the life of a professional AFL player.