Charlie Banfield’s AFL dream will become a reality this weekend, with the 18-year-old named to make his debut against Richmond on Sunday afternoon at Marvel Stadium in Sir Doug Nicholls Round.
Euro-Yroke’s second pick in the 2025 AFL Draft (No.41 overall), the Claremont product was impressive across both VFL and AFL practice matches in the pre-season before facing an unfortunate setback, injuring his shoulder in Round 1 of the VFL.
“Charlie hasn’t missed a beat since arriving at RSEA Park,” GM of Football Lenny Hayes said.
“We’re proud of his willingness to learn, improve and put in the work required, as well as the way he’s handled relocating to Melbourne and an injury setback in his first season.
“He’s earned this opportunity and the respect of his teammates. We know they’ll be right behind him when he runs out for his first game this weekend.”
The son of 265-game premiership Eagle Drew Banfield, the 191cm utility was regarded as one of Western Australia’s most consistent performers leading into last season. He was selected in all four National Championships games across the past two years and featured among Western Australia’s best players in every outing in his draft year.
Banfield capped his junior career by winning the Mel Whinnen Medal for best-on-ground in the 2025 WAFL Colts Grand Final, finishing with 28 disposals, five clearances, nine inside 50s, five marks and two goals in a dominant display.
Charlie will be the first Saint to debut this season after the club unveiled nine debutants in 2025.
