Jake Waterman
Born May 6, 1998 in Perth, Western Australia, Australia • Next birthday: May 6, 2026
May 6, 1998
Perth, Western Australia, Australia0
0 likesMay 6, 2026
177 days out12
Total visitsWhat does it take to revolutionize Australian rules football? For Jake Waterman, it began with an unwavering belief in his own resilience and athletic precision. Born on 1998-05-06 in Perth, Western Australia, he rose from junior footy at Marist and Claremont to be drafted via a father-son pick by the West Coast Eagles in 2016. He made his AFL debut in Round 1 of 2018 at Optus Stadium. Looking back, the shift proved critical because he embraced a forward role and re-defined what mobility and goal sense could look like for a 191 cm key forward. His breakout came amid club transition and personal health battles-he battled ulcerative colitis in late 2023, lost significant weight, and fought back to lead his club's goalkicking with 53 goals in 2024 and earn selection in the All-Australian team. Throughout that journey he turned moments of vulnerability into unexpected impetus, blending creativity in his movement, scientific discipline in his training and recovery, and audacious vision in his goal sense to pioneer new standards for the modern forward. In a game shifting toward speed, versatility and sustained endurance, he became a flag-bearer for a new style of key forward-grounded in athleticism as much as strength. Decades later, Jake Waterman's indelible impact endures - inspiring new generations across Australia and beyond, leaving us with the lesson that resilience fuels reinvention.
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Career & Achievements
- Drafted No. 77 (father-son) in 2016 national draft
- AFL debut in Round 1, 2018 for West Coast Eagles
- NAB AFL Rising Star nomination (2018)
- West Coast leading goalkicker (2024)
- All-Australian team selection (2024)
Personal Details
Latest News
West Coast Eagles official site
West Coast ruled out star Jake Waterman for remainder of season after shoulder surgery
In an update published on 26 May 2025, the club confirmed that Jake Waterman will undergo shoulder reconstruction, ruling him out for the rest of the season. The injury occurred in the previous loss and required him to move to the inactive list immediately. Rehabilitation now becomes the major focus ahead of any return.
Nine.com.au
Jake Waterman dislocates shoulder in heavy loss to Adelaide
On 24 May 2025, reporting revealed that Waterman dislocated his shoulder during a marking contest in a 66-point loss against Adelaide. The injury strike was brutal in context of a difficult period for the club, and scans were pending to assess severity. The setback comes at a time when the forward had been building momentum.
ABC News
AFL Round 11: Jake Waterman injury adds to Eagles' woes
In live coverage dated 25 May 2025, Waterman's injury was listed among several major storylines of Round 11 as the Eagles suffered yet another blow. The report noted the forward was rushed to hospital for scans after appearing in pain in the final term, compounding the club's on-field struggles and raising questions about depth and resilience.
6PR Radio
Jake Waterman opens up emotionally after tragic weekend at Eagles
Interviewed on 19 May 2025, Waterman spoke candidly about the emotional context of the weekend for his club, following the death of former teammate Adam Selwood. He reflected on the team's response, the personal and collective resilience required, and how off-field events framed the significance of every match moving forward.
Fox Sports
How gut-health focus powered Jake Waterman's remarkable comeback
An in-depth feature published 29 January 2025 outlined how Waterman's battle with the auto-immune condition ulcerative colitis in 2023 fuelled his career-defining 2024 season. The piece detailed his year of recovery, mindset shift, and how a renewed training and nutrition regime helped him post-53-goal output and All-Australian selection.
FAQ
Who is Jake Waterman?
Jake Waterman is a professional Australian rules footballer who plays for the West Coast Eagles in the AFL. He is known for his agility, precision, and leadership on the field. His dynamic playing style and perseverance through health challenges have made him one of the league's standout forwards.
What position does Jake Waterman play?
He primarily plays as a key forward, combining strong marking with excellent mobility. His ability to create scoring opportunities and pressure defenders makes him a crucial part of the West Coast Eagles' forward structure.
What are Jake Waterman's most notable achievements?
His top achievements include the 2024 All-Australian team selection, West Coast Eagles leading goalkicker in 2024, and a NAB AFL Rising Star nomination in 2018. These accomplishments reflect his growth from a promising draftee to a league-recognized talent.
How did Jake Waterman start his AFL career?
Jake entered the AFL as a father-son selection in the 2016 national draft, following his father Chris Waterman, a former West Coast premiership player. He debuted in Round 1 of 2018 and quickly impressed with his energy and accuracy in front of goal.
What challenges has Jake Waterman overcome?
In 2023, he was diagnosed with ulcerative colitis, a serious auto-immune condition. After losing significant weight, he demonstrated remarkable resilience, returning to lead his team's goalkicking and earn national recognition in 2024.
Which club does Jake Waterman play for?
He plays for the West Coast Eagles, one of the premier clubs in the Australian Football League, based in Perth, Western Australia. The club has been integral to his professional growth and public profile.
What makes Jake Waterman's playing style unique?
His style blends physical power with exceptional endurance and game awareness. Unlike traditional key forwards, he thrives on versatility, capable of both deep attacking plays and mid-field link-ups.
Has Jake Waterman received any awards?
Yes, he earned a NAB AFL Rising Star nomination in 2018 and an All-Australian selection in 2024. These honors highlight his consistency and elite contribution to the sport.
Is Jake Waterman involved in community or charity work?
He has supported several community initiatives through the West Coast Eagles foundation, often participating in youth mentorship and wellness programs. His openness about health recovery has inspired many facing similar challenges.
Where can fans follow Jake Waterman's latest updates?
Fans can follow him through official West Coast Eagles platforms, AFL media, and verified social channels. Game highlights, interviews, and upcoming appearances are regularly shared through these outlets.
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