As the West Coast Eagles navigate the challenging terrain of rebuilding their AFL side, young midfielder Elijah Hewett has stepped forward with a sense of maturity and commitment that belies his age. Still only in his third season at the club, the 20-year-old has already begun to shape the team's future culture — a culture he hopes will convince star midfielder Harley Reid to commit his long-term future to the Eagles.

The Eagles are reportedly in the middle of negotiating what could be a historic 11-year deal worth approximately $24 million to retain Reid, who has quickly become one of the most electrifying young players in the league. If finalised, the contract would be the most lucrative in AFL history. However, these negotiations come amid an unfortunate setback, as Reid has been ruled out for the remainder of the season due to an ankle syndesmosis injury sustained in the recent Western Derby.

Despite this challenge, Hewett has made it clear that he wants to be a pillar for the club moving forward — both in terms of performance and culture.

“I love the club to bits. I fell in love with it as a little boy, so for me, greater than me being at the club personally is to see the club succeed over a long period of time,” Hewett said.

“It’s important for me to help build an environment where people want to be there and that includes Harley.

“And I love Harley and love how he goes about his business. He’s one of the best players I’ve ever seen so to have him stay around is important.”

Hewett’s admiration for Reid is personal as well as professional. The two sit next to each other in the locker room, and that camaraderie has only grown as Reid’s profile has exploded in the AFL world.

“He’s a switched-on young man and he’s got a great grasp of what’s important to him,” Hewett said.

“He’s taken it in his stride, and to see him in good spirits at the club is important.

“He has had such a great year and such a great last two years, so missing a few weeks won’t rattle him. And he’ll get back on course and keep training.”

Hewett’s comments speak to a maturity and selflessness that are crucial for any team looking to rebuild successfully. The midfielder understands that while individual talent is important, it's the culture and unity of a club that ultimately defines its long-term success. His goal is not just to be a standout player himself, but to foster an environment where stars like Reid want to stay and thrive.

That mission becomes even more critical as the Eagles face a tough test this weekend. With Reid sidelined, along with other key midfielders Elliot Yeo (ankle injury) and Jack Graham (suspension), much of the midfield responsibility will fall on Hewett and a younger cohort still finding their feet at the elite level.

This Saturday, West Coast will take on Melbourne at Marvel Stadium — a daunting task even at full strength. But for Hewett, it’s another chance to lead from the front.

“I think Tom Gross comes in. I will probably take on a bit more responsibility and that’s great,” Hewett said.

“We’ve got a young, rebuilding midfield and we’re all taking on a bit more responsibility as the years go. I will take it by the reins.”

Gross, the Eagles’ exciting draftee, is tipped to make his senior debut in Reid’s absence. His inclusion signals both an opportunity and a challenge — a baptism by fire in the crucible of elite-level football. Yet, with players like Hewett beside him, Gross is stepping into an environment where emerging talent is supported, not stifled.

It is this very environment that Hewett wants to cultivate, particularly as the Eagles continue to reshape their list post-premiership era. Where once the club leaned on the likes of Shannon Hurn, Josh Kennedy, and Luke Shuey, the baton has now passed to a younger group determined to write a new chapter.

That new chapter will likely hinge on whether the club can retain Harley Reid. A long-term deal of the magnitude currently being discussed is unprecedented in the AFL, but it may be a necessity to lock down a generational talent before rival clubs try to lure him back to Victoria. The noise surrounding Reid’s contract negotiations has become a constant storyline this season, yet within the four walls of Mineral Resources Park, the message is clear — the club is committed to building something lasting.

West Coast fans, bruised by recent seasons near the foot of the ladder, will take heart in the attitude of their emerging leaders. In Hewett, the Eagles have a young midfielder who not only performs on the field but understands the broader picture. He embodies a blend of on-field toughness and off-field leadership that gives the club hope for the future.

As the team prepares for a testing clash against Melbourne, the absence of its stars will be felt. But for Elijah Hewett, it’s another step in the journey toward shaping a culture that sustains success — one where players want to stay, grow, and win.

And perhaps, most importantly, one where Harley Reid decides to sign that historic contract and help lead the next great West Coast Eagles era.