West Coast ruck Parris Laurie has revealed that the opportunity to develop her ruck craft and the future of women’s football were key factors behind her cross from Fremantle to the Eagles last year.

The 25-year-old former basketballer was one of the finds of the 2019 season after being drafted by the Dockers, but after eight games she headed to Lathlain along with eight of her Docker teammates.

Laurie has a big part to play in the development of women’s football in WA as a player and as a mentor, running the girls’ football program at Mater Dei College in Edgewater.

“Being part of the inaugural team is really special to me, helping out to make that pathway for those girls who are coming through,” she said.

“With a second club coming in, that provides even more opportunity for girls in WA.

“They’ve got their opportunities now to follow footy if that’s what they want to do.”

The chance to work with a full-time ruck coach, Ryan Turnbull, at the Eagles also helped sway Laurie’s decision.

“The Eagles could offer a full-time ruck coach and a really good calibre of coaches, but also the large amount of coaches they have at the Eagles is incredible,” she said. “It has been super exciting and really special to see the group come together and I honestly haven’t looked back since choosing the Eagles.

“I get asked a lot whether I am happy with my decision and 100 per cent I absolutely love it.”

The Eagles are keeping positive despite losing their first three games and are looking to bag their first win when they take on the Western Bulldogs at Leederville Oval on Saturday.

“As soon as everyone is back in the club on a Monday after a game, everyone is excited to keep improving and looking forward to the next game,” she said.