WAFL 2026: Fremantle next generation academy prospect Lucas Robinson to make South Fremantle debut

Fremantle next generation academy prospect Lucas Robinson will get an early taste of senior football when he makes his league debut for South Fremantle on Saturday. The reigning premiers will be without star midfielder Matt Parker and forward Brandon Donaldson, who will miss the clash with Swan Districts at Bassendean because of soft tissue injuries. Robinson is considered one of the top draft prospects out of WA this year, with the big-bodied midfielder coming from Lake Grace — the same town as dual Brownlow medallist Nat Fyfe. The 191cm prospect — who helped Hale School win the Alcock Cup last year — spent time training at the Dockers over the pre-season as part of the academy program — which he qualifies for because of his Zimbabwean heritage. Robinson was once in West Coast’s academy and tied to Claremont, before it was realised his family’s farm was in the catchment for Fremantle and South Fremantle. The 18-year-old is known for his clean hands around the stoppage and aerial ability, while he averaged 26.4 disposals and six tackles in seven colts games for the Bulldogs last year. However, the Bulldogs will be without Parker for at least round one as he deals with a quad niggle. The former Richmond and St Kilda forward is coming off a career-best season in 2025, finishing second to Perth co-captain Charlie Constable in the Sandover Medal after he averaged 23 touches and nearly a goal a game. Small forward Donaldson is also set for a short stint on the sidelines as he recovers from a calf injury he sustained in the pre-season. Swan Districts will be without key midfielder Jye Chalcraft for the start of the year as he comes back from a Lisfranc injury he sustained late last season. The Swans will also be without defensive duo Jake Pasini who is coming from a knee reconstruction and Will Collins — who will play a half in the reserves because of bone stress in his knee. Spearhead Leigh Kohlmann will miss at least a month because of a lower leg issue. Former Melbourne Stars and Perth Scorchers all-rounder Clint Hinchliffe is set to make his WAFL debut, alongside fellow recruits Jez Rigoni, Lucas Impey, Jovan Petric, Zach Provest and Kade Chalcraft.