Dewar ‘relieved’ to receive draft combine invite

Just 12 months ago, Subiaco colt Tyrell Dewar missed state selection as a 17-year-old.

Whilst still on the radar of selectors, he showed glimpses of his best as a junior, but had plenty to work on to become a more complete player.

However, 2022 has seen a new player emerge, where Dewar not only made the WA squad, but performed well enough to be invited to this year’s National Combine.

The Mines Rovers product said it had been occupying his thoughts since the end of the state carnival.

“It was a relief to find out I got an invite,” Dewar said.

“It really means a lot, I couldn’t stop thinking about it when I was at work,

“It was playing on my mind all day.”

Growing up in Kalgoorlie, he said it had always been a dream to get drafted to the AFL.

The club has formed a strong connection with the region, with a number of the colts players coming from the Goldfields, and with Subiaco hosting a league match there in round five this season.

Dewar’s journey led him to Wesley College, as well as the Subiaco Football Club, where he first caught the attention of state selectors.

He said the Lions have been instrumental for his football.

“All the feedback I get from the coaches and all the match reviews have helped me a lot,” Dewar said.

“The club has helped me improve my game.”

Dewar’s state carnival had mixed results, and involved a role change. 

He had primarily been used as a defender this season for Subiaco but a strong backline for WA meant Dewar was played forward throughout the carnival.

After initially getting dropped and getting his opportunity later in the season, an eye-catching two goal performance against South Australia sparked interest in the versatile Lion.

He said playing in the black and gold was a rewarding experience.

“I was really focused on getting a game in the first place and then keeping my spot on the team,” Dewar said.

“It was a really good experience, getting around a couple of the boys I didn’t really know and making some new mates.”

Dewar said the change of role this season has caused an increase to his self belief.

“I’ve been building more confidence which has helped me perform,” Dewar said.

“Moving to the backline helped me feel comfortable with the run and carry and allowed me to break the lines.”

The 18-year-old is a West Coast Eagles Next Generation Academy talent prospect, an opportunity he said has allowed him to get more feedback and helped him improve his skills.

Dewar is balancing his footballing career with an electrical apprenticeship, and said while he enjoyed the work, getting his name called out on draft night would be a huge reward for effort.

“It would mean the world to not just me, but for my family and for my mates.”