West Coast ruckman Mark Seaby wants out
Greg Denham | October 03, 2008
WEST Coast's premiership ruckman Mark Seaby may be the answer to the prayers of several clubs after requesting to be traded out of the Eagles for more opportunities.
Seaby, who played a bit part in West Coast's 2006 premiership win over Sydney under the competition's elite ruckman Dean Cox, informed coach John Worsfold of his intentions to leave for an opportunity to get more game time at another club.
His Perth-based manager Wayne Loxley yesterday said he had spoken to Richmond, Carlton and St Kilda and would also discuss his client's future with the Swans.
"Mark has informed the Eagles that he wants to be traded and he hopes they can do a deal because he is contracted until the end of next year," Loxley said.
"He's basically been forced out by the dominance of Cox, who is rarely rested, and Mark wants
more game time. It's been difficult at times under the best ruckman and he aspires to be No1 at another club."
Seaby, 24, has played 97 games in five seasons and is prepared to move anywhere to play on a regular basis.
"West Coast's attitude is that they want him to stay, but we think he's good enough to be the No.1 man at a number of clubs," Loxley said.
"His form in the WAFL finals for West Perth was outstanding. He's recently married and would adjust very well. He's such a settled young bloke."
After withdrawing from the race to secure ex-Fremantle ruckman Robbie Warnock because of Carlton's massive offer, Richmond has expressed keen interest in Seaby, which would allow the
Tigers to play their No1 ruckman Troy Simmonds more often as a key forward. The Tigers have been placed on a tight budget and the Blues have offered Warnock a four-year deal worth $1.4million.
While Richmond will not give up its first national draft selection, No8 overall, its second-round selection (No26) could be used as part of a deal to satisfy the Eagles.
Tigers general manager of football operations Craig Cameron said: "We're in preliminary discussions with West Coast."
The Eagles, who will almost certainly replace Seaby by drafting West Australian ruckman Nick Naitanui with their first pick (No.2 overall), will demand a better deal than Richmond's second-round draft selection. http://www.theaustralian.news.com.au/story/0,25197,24437818-5012432,00.html