Jeremy Cameron may have been ruled out of the 2026 AAMI AFL Origin game, but his presence lingers in the team’s WhatsApp group chat. Spearheaded by player liaison officer Joel Selwood, the chat has become a hub of camaraderie and banter, especially with the recent inclusion of Ben King.
Patrick Dangerfield emerges as the most vocal participant, keeping the energy high among the Victorian team. Geelong’s representation is strong, with Tom Stewart and Max Holmes securing spots in December, followed by Bailey Smith’s addition last week. This selection has reinvigorated the group chat, with a Western Bulldogs star seizing the moment to humorously jab at a former teammate, sparking lively exchanges as the team prepares for their journey west.
Coaching and Support Staff: A Star-Studded Lineup
Leading the Victorian squad is two-time premiership coach Chris Scott, who brings along his trusted analyst Stephen Nicholls and the club’s science and medicine consultant, Dr. Steve Saunders. Assisting Scott are Hawthorn coach Sam Mitchell and Gold Coast midfield coach Shaun Grigg, with Brisbane GM Danny Daly stepping into a comprehensive footy manager role.
The support team is bolstered by top-tier football department staff, including Collingwood’s high-performance boss Jarrod Wade, Western Bulldogs’ head of sports medicine Chris Bell, and North Melbourne’s head of strength John Leyden. Hawthorn’s medical trio—Liam West, Andrew Lambart, and Alex Stone—along with St Kilda’s player development manager Tony Brown, complete the robust team heading to Perth.
Historical Context and Significance
This Origin game marks the first since Victoria hosted South Australia at the MCG in 1999. The Victorian team will train at West Coast’s Mineral Resources Park on Thursday, followed by a captain’s run at Optus Stadium on Friday morning. A welcome dinner at Crown on Thursday night will see players receive their iconic ‘Big V’ jumper and blazer, with Victorian greats, including chairman of selectors Garry Lyon, participating in the ceremony.
Adding to the historical significance, three E.J. Whitten Medal winners—Brent Harvey, Dale Weightman, and Simon Madden—have been invited to join the Victorians in Perth, further enriching the event’s legacy.
Family Involvement and Cultural Experience
The AFL has extended invitations to the partners and children of all selected players, ensuring family involvement in various activities throughout the week. The organization is providing nannies to assist families, allowing players to focus on the game while enjoying quality time with loved ones.
During their five-day stay in Western Australia, players and their families will explore local attractions such as Rottnest Island and Caversham Wildlife Park, indulge in golf, and embark on a lobster charter, blending sport with cultural experiences.
Joel Selwood: From Player to Liaison Officer
Joel Selwood, a four-time premiership winner with the Cats, is now a pivotal figure in the AFL Origin framework. Holding the record for most games as captain and most finals appearances, Selwood played only one game for Victoria during the 2008 tribute match. His transition from legendary midfielder to a significant role in football operations underscores his enduring impact on the sport.
As the Victorian team prepares for this much-anticipated Origin clash, the revitalized team spirit fostered through digital camaraderie and strategic leadership promises a memorable showdown in Perth.
