Outgoing West Coast chair Paul Fitzpatrick adamant Eagles on right track despite ‘deeply disappointing’ 2024

Outgoing West Coast chair Paul Fitzpatrick is adamant the club is on the right track in its rebuild despite a “deeply disappointing” 2024 season.

Fitzpatrick departs the role after serving the maximum nine-year term on the Eagles’ board, the last two as chairman. He will be replaced by Elizabeth Gaines in 2025, while premiership player Rowan Jones will be her deputy.

In his final letter to the club’s members, Fitzpatrick acknowledged “the last few years have been challenging”.

“The focus now is progressing each of our three teams up the premiership ladder and that process is well and truly under way,” it read.

“I would like to begin by thanking our members and staff for their tremendous support during the year, highlighted by some great performances by our men’s and women’s teams and by the steady progress shown by our younger players.

“However, being entrenched in the bottom portion of the premiership ladder for the last three years, and for our AFL team to win only five games this season, was deeply disappointing.

“There have been many changes at the club over the past 12 months as we strive to put in place the right structures to underpin our next successful era.”

Fitpatrick conceded the biggest decision made by the club was to part ways with 2018 premiership coach Adam Simpson after more than a decade at the helm.

“A much-loved figure and premiership coach, Simmo and the club decided with seven games remaining that it was best for all concerned to take a different course,” Fitzpatrick added.

The club appointed former Richmond caretaker and Melbourne assistant Andrew McQualter in October.

FItzpatrick said it was “the most crucial decision” the club had made this season, as he promised a quick return to success for the Eagles.

“I know at times your commitment to the club has been tested, but your resilience and resolve to stick with us has been an inspiration,” he told members.

“That unwavering faith will be rewarded in the shortest possible time frame. “