Albany product Sam Lamont left in limbo after Eagles’ WAFL exit

Midfielder Sam Lamont’s second stint in the WAFL could be over after just one season, as an AFL ruling announced this week will prevent AFL-listed players to participate in second-tier competitions. That decision means the West Coast Eagles will not be able to field a team in the WAFL in 2020, if that competition begins. Lamont, pictured, who hails from Royals, was one of the Eagles reserves top-up players in 2019 and played one senior game where he collected nine disposals against West Perth. With the Eagles now withdrawing from this year’s WAFL competition, it leaves Lamont in limbo. The 26-year-old has been a dominant force at amateur club North Beach for the last few seasons and said he was eager to play football this year no matter where. He did not rule out a possible return to the GSFL to reunite with his junior club. “I just want to play some form of footy this year,” he said. “Even if it means coming down and having a kick at Royals. “I will explore my other WAFL options and see what transpires but all I want to do is play footy wherever that may be.” Lamont’s return to the WAFL last season ended a four-year hiatus at State league level, having previously played for Claremont for three seasons. On Tuesday the WAFL released a statement on the AFL’s decision, which has had major ramifications for Peel Thunder given their alignment to Fremantle and the Eagles who immediately pulled their side. “The WAFC was made aware of the AFL’s ruling today,” it read. “This has significant implications for the WAFL competition and will need to be taken into account for all of our planning around what a 2020 WAFL season may look like. “We remain focussed on getting a WAFL season underway at some point this year and will work through all available options and scenarios with our clubs.” The Eagles had only 16 non-AFL listed players in their squad but said in a statement on Tuesday night they understood the ruling. “We understand the need for tight protocols around our players and staff circulating in the community and the risks that presents,” Eagles football manager Craig Vozzo said. “It is disappointing, but this is a unique situation and we must abide by the strict protocols as directed by our governments, health officials and the AFL.”