Perth, 22 March 2026 – The name Duursma is already legendary in Australian rules football, and in November 2025, it gained a new standard-bearer. Willem Duursma, the talented midfielder from Gippsland Power, realised a lifelong dream when the West Coast Eagles selected him with the coveted first pick in the AFL national draft, joining an elite club of number one selections and becoming the fourth member of his immediate family to reach the sport’s pinnacle.
The Draft Night
The 2025 AFL draft in November was a formality for many experts, with Duursma long touted as the leading prospect. Stepping into the spotlight, he followed in the footsteps of his older siblings – Xavier (Port Adelaide), Yasmin (AFLW), and Zane (Essendon) – in being drafted. In interviews following the selection, Duursma expressed a mix of excitement and relief, noting the unique pressure and privilege of carrying his family’s famous surname. He admitted the reality of being an AFL player began to sink in only when he first stepped onto the track at his new club.
The Duursma Dynasty
Born and raised in the regional Victorian town of Foster, Willem’s childhood was steeped in sport. He watched as Xavier, then Yasmin, and finally Zane were drafted, living out their dreams before his eyes. This provided not just inspiration but a clear roadmap to the AFL. The family’s success has been attributed to a deep-seated work ethic and supportive environment, with their mother playing a pivotal role in fostering their talents through years of dedication, driving, and meticulous diary-keeping of their junior careers.
A Dancer’s Footwork
One of the more unique aspects of Duursma’s athletic profile is his background in tap dancing. He has openly credited his years spent dancing with significantly enhancing his footwork, agility, and balance on the football field. This unusual training ground has given him an edge in evading tackles and maintaining poise in congestion, setting him apart from many of his peers and fascinating fans and commentators alike.
Life in the West & A Brutal Initiation
Relocating from the cool climes of Gippsland to Perth for a scorching Western Australian summer presented an immediate challenge. Duursma was thrown straight into the Eagles’ pre-season program, which he described in February 2026 as “pretty brutal.” The intense training regime, designed to build the fitness and resilience required for AFL football, served as a stark introduction to the professional ranks. He has embraced life at West Coast, aiming to cement his spot in the team for the upcoming season.
Looking Ahead to 2026
As the 2026 AFL season approaches, expectations are high for the number one pick. While his family name brings a ready-made narrative, the focus at West Coast is on development and contribution. The Eagles, in a rebuilding phase, will be looking to Duursma to bring his elite skill set, game intelligence, and famous family work ethic to bear as they look to climb the ladder. All eyes will be on whether he can translate his prodigious junior talent into consistent AFL performance.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which AFL club drafted Willem Duursma?
Willem Duursma was selected with the first overall pick in the 2025 AFL national draft by the West Coast Eagles.
How many siblings does he have in the AFL/AFLW?
Willem has three older siblings who are professional footballers: brother Xavier (Port Adelaide), sister Yasmin (AFLW), and brother Zane (Essendon). He is the fourth Duursma sibling to be drafted.
What is his background outside of football?
Duursma has a strong background in tap dancing, which he has credited for developing the footwork, agility, and balance that benefit his football play.
Where is he from?
He hails from the small town of Foster in the Gippsland region of Victoria and played his junior football for the Gippsland Power in the Coates Talent League.
What are the expectations for his first season?
After enduring a demanding pre-season, the expectation is for Duursma to adapt to the speed and physicality of AFL football and secure a regular spot in the West Coast Eagles’ midfield, contributing to the club’s future success.