Harley Reid Discusses Life in Perth, Criticism, and External Pressures

Does Harley Reid need some tough love? | 03:30

He’s gone from prized pick to prime target.

Harley Reid was one of the hottest topics in football even before he was drafted – but the narrative has changed.

The No. 1 pick entered the AFL with a boom reputation and great expectation, and, somehow, initially fulfilled them by steering the West Coast Eagles to two unlikely victories.

But as much as Reid’s on-field attention has exploded, his off-field spotlight has burned even brighter.

The 19-year-old had shouldered the weight of pressure but for the first time last weekend it appeared to have impacted him as he reacted to a heckler over the fence.

Reid, in an exclusive interview with this masthead earlier this month, said he felt like one of few players under such an intense spotlight and was still taking time to adapt to the glare.

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“It was obviously a huge adjustment from what I am used to, I guess, and a lot of players don’t go through that type of stuff,” Reid, who has partnered with Optimum Nutrition, said.

“It’s something I’m still getting used to, but I have got more comfortable over the past 18 months and I try not to read into it too much either.”

Reid’s early performances, including a Derby-winning display in just his sixth game, forced opposition coaches to enforce a tag.

The 22-gamer is searching for his counter to close attention but game day remains the brief part of his week when he can escape the “irrelevant” noise.

“I think on field is the best time of the week, you go out there, you feel free, the external noise is kind of irrelevant and you just feel free,” Reid said.

“I just remember where I came from, who I am and that we’re all in the team for a reason, to play a role, so it’s kind of executing my role and how can I help influence this team to win.”

Reid admits he is yet to find the consistency he wants at AFL level and understands his preparation plays a key part in his performance.

He thinks his partnership with Optimum Nutrition will help and is leaning on an experienced teammate, who once was criticised for his fitness and consistency.

“For me it’s kind of going back to what I bring to the game and I think if I have done the work during the week and prepared best, I let my footy do the talking,” he said.

“I think if I am confident enough, my talent will take over and I’ll be able to play my best footy.

“Last year, consistency probably wasn’t there as much as I would have liked, so this year it’s something I want to strive to improve and be consistent through the year, not just one or two games here or there and also maintain it for four quarters.

“‘Gov’ (Jeremy McGovern) has been huge for that, he’s given me a few little tips and tweaks to bring into my game to get consistency and bring back what I do best in those times when I feel a bit out of it.”

Despite his regular attention, game day remains Harley Reid’s favourite part of the week. (Photo by Dylan Burns/AFL Photos via Getty Images)Source: Getty Images

Reid wants to evolve into a midfielder capable of running strongly both ways.

The transition running has been one of his many criticisms this season, but he remains

Like any part of his development, Reid knows it will be a consequence of his commitment.

“I think at this time it’s more midfield minutes and trying to build up that transition running and that tank to execute my role in the midfield,” he said.

“That’s been something I have wanted to improve this pre-season and it’s come a long way.

“I’m keen to get out and play a sustainable role in the midfield alongside TK, Yeoy, (Jack) Graham, (Liam) Duggan, some exciting players coming across and then Bailey Williams and Matt Flynn.

“I think it comes back to the willingness to get better and striving to be the best you can and the best version of yourself on and off the field.”

Harley Reid raised expectations with a matchwinning display against Melbourne against a star-laden midfield. (Photo by Paul Kane/Getty Images)Source: Getty Images

The teenager from Tongala in country Victoria fended off several questions about his future but commended West Coast for its treatment of interstate draftees and recruits.

“There’s some similarities (Perth) but ‘Tonny’ only has a population of about 1200 so there’s a bit of a difference there,” he said with a laugh.

“They’ve (West Coast) been great, with all the new draftees coming in, they look after them super well and just make it feel like another home very quickly.

“You know what footy clubs are like, they are very tight and have a good culture and obviously their values make people feel welcome and feel at home.

“They’ve been great, not just for me but for all players who have come from different states and other clubs.”