Written by Megan Taylor, sports reporter covering international sports since 2020
Brandon Starcevich West Coast debut plans are finally locked in, with the former Brisbane defender set to play his first AFL game for the Eagles against Port Adelaide at Optus Stadium on Saturday night.
The 132-game backman has endured a slow start to life in blue and gold after a calf injury delayed his arrival, but two WAFL games have cleared the way for his return to the top level.
For more AFL coverage, read Pat Voss reveals painful injury after Brisbane scuffle during Fremantle win.
Starcevich Ready After WAFL Build
Starcevich played limited minutes against East Fremantle before completing a full hit-out against Peel Thunder in wet and windy conditions at Mineral Resources Park.
The 26-year-old said he was thrilled when told the news in front of the West Coast playing group on Wednesday.
“It’s been a long time coming,” Starcevich said.
“It was a tough start to my life as an Eagle, so to finally get out there this weekend will be an achievement for myself.
“I’m not a very good watcher from the sidelines – I get a bit jealous – so the last couple of months have been pretty tough.
Eagles Add Proven Premiership Defender
Starcevich said his new teammates had supported him during his injury layoff and were eager to see him back on the field.
“The boys have been asking for the last couple of weeks when I’m going to be playing,” Starcevich said.
“They’ve all been really supportive over the last couple of months, and I’m keen to get out there and play alongside a lot of them.”
Drafted by Brisbane with pick No.18 in the 2017 national draft, Starcevich became a key part of the Lions’ rise to back-to-back premierships in 2024 and 2025.
He joined West Coast in November as part of a three-team trade that also brought the Eagles picks No.12, No.33 and No.52 in the 2025 draft. Official club updates are available through the West Coast Eagles website.