West Coast Eagles Prodigy Harley Reid Draws Inspiration from AFL Icon Dustin Martin
Emerging West Coast Eagles talent Harley Reid has long been compared to football legend Dustin Martin, ever since he was selected as the number one pick in the 2023 AFL National Draft. The 20-year-old midfielder, noted for his vision, tackle-breaking prowess, and goal-scoring ability, shares striking similarities with the Richmond great, positioning him as one of the league's most promising young prospects.
A Pivotal Meeting with a Footy Legend
Despite the Eagles' challenging season, finishing at the bottom of the AFL ladder last year, Reid has shone in his first two years, scoring 24 goals and showcasing his creativity and physical strength. Now, he is focusing on personal growth and has sought wisdom from Martin himself. In an interview with Channel 7's Mitch Cleary, Reid disclosed that he attended a dinner with the three-time Norm Smith Medallist, alongside several West Coast players including former Richmond teammates Liam Baker, Jack Graham, and head coach Andrew McQualter, who previously coached at Richmond from 2014 to 2023.
Reid admitted to feeling 'starstruck' and 'a bit nervous' during the encounter, even though he had faced Martin on the pitch just before the Richmond star's retirement in 2024. Reflecting on the experience, Reid said, '[I] said to the boys after, I was like, I never really get starstruck or nothing. I was sitting there a bit nervous. I was in the middle of 'Fridge' [Graham] and Bakes [Baker] thinking, oh s***, what's going to happen here?'
Valuable Lessons and Future Support
The young Eagle found the meeting immensely beneficial, stating, 'It was actually very good for me. I thought I learned a lot in a small amount of time. And yeah, he [Martin] is just an all-round top bloke.' Moreover, Martin extended an offer of ongoing guidance, with Reid revealing, 'He sent me a message after it to reach out any time I'd like, so I respect that a lot and, yeah, I'll probably use it when I need to.'
Navigating Challenges and Commitment to Growth
Reid's 2025 campaign included 19 appearances for the Eagles, but it was not without controversy, such as an incident where he gestured at heckling Brisbane Lions fans. As he enters his third season, the midfielder is determined to mature and let his performance speak for itself. He explained, 'Obviously, it was a big learning for me and trying to work out things to keep my head in the game and not go elsewhere. All the boys back me in and I respect that and I'll do my best to stay in the game and in the moment for the boys.'
Amid speculation about a potential move to a Victorian club last year, Reid reaffirmed his loyalty to the Eagles by signing a contract extension in August, securing his place with the team until the end of the 2028 season. He attributes his current peak form to improved nutrition and fitness routines during the off-season, saying, 'I feel the best I have ever in my career. Body-wise, I think I've learned a lot about my body and I know my body a lot more now. I can test it.'
Looking ahead, Reid emphasised the importance of off-field professionalism, noting, 'Feels like the time's bloody flown going into my third year this year but I think it's just more the little things, how to become the best person and the best player I possibly can. It's probably more along the lines of professionalism off field.'
