Former Geelong Cats players Brandon Barfitt, Charlie Constable, and Blake Schlensog are emerging as pivotal figures in the Perth Demons’ push for a WAFL finals berth in 2025. After their AFL careers, these three midfielders have transitioned seamlessly into the WAFL competition, bringing experience, skill, and leadership to Perth’s lineup. As the Demons seek to break into the finals mix next season, the contributions of Barfitt, Constable, and Schlensog are widely viewed as key factors in the club’s resurgence.
Brandon Barfitt leadership propels Perth Demons midfield strength
Brandon Barfitt’s influence within the Perth Demons midfield cannot be overstated. His experience, honed during his time at Geelong Cats, brings a level of composure and tactical acumen that has transformed the team’s engine room. Barfitt’s ability to read the play and distribute the ball efficiently allows the Demons to maintain possession under pressure and set up attacking opportunities with precision. This leadership quality extends beyond his on-field performance, as he consistently mentors younger players, fostering a resilient and adaptive midfield unit.
The Demons’ recent surge in WAFL performance is closely tied to several key attributes brought by Barfitt:
- Strategic decision-making: deft ball use in tight situations, enabling controlled transitions.
- Midfield leadership: orchestrating team movements and maintaining structure.
- Endurance and work rate: setting a benchmark for intensity and commitment throughout matches.
As these strengths combine with the dynamic talents of Charlie Constable and Blake Schlensog, the Perth Demons’ midfield has emerged as one of the cornerstones of their anticipated finals campaign in 2025.
Charlie Constable’s tactical versatility key to team’s strategic edge
Charlie Constable’s ability to fluidly switch roles on the field has become a cornerstone of the Perth Demons’ game plan. Whether deployed as an inside midfielder, a wingman, or pushed forward to impact the scoreboard, Constable’s adaptability provides the coaching staff with a dynamic weapon that opponents find difficult to predict. This versatility allows the team to adjust its structure mid-game without losing rhythm, enhancing overall cohesion and responsiveness. His keen football intelligence and endurance underpin these shifts, enabling seamless transitions that maximize team impact in crucial moments.
Key elements of Constable’s tactical flexibility include:
- Reading the play: Anticipating opposition movements to position himself effectively across multiple zones.
- Ball distribution: Serving as a reliable link between defense and attack through precise kicking and handballing.
- Pressure application: Switching from offensive drives to defensive presses, supporting the team’s transitional gameplay.
This multifaceted approach not only elevates his personal performance but also amplifies the effectiveness of his teammates, creating strategic advantages that can decisively influence the outcome of tight matches.
Blake Schlensog’s impact on defensive resilience shaping finals prospects
Blake Schlensog has rapidly become the linchpin in the Perth Demons’ defensive framework, offering a steadfast presence in high-pressure situations. His ability to read the play and intercept opposition advances has drastically improved the team’s defensive efficiency, allowing Perth to maintain composure during pivotal moments. Schlensog’s leadership at the backline goes beyond raw stats; his communication and strategic positioning have helped structure a back six that can absorb sustained pressure, shaping the Demons into a team that opponents find increasingly difficult to break down.
Key factors in Schlensog’s influence include:
- Consistent intercept marking: Relieving pressure by cutting off opponent drives before they reach critical scoring zones.
- Resilient one-on-one contests: Winning critical defensive duels that prevent momentum swings.
- Organizational skills: Directing teammates into optimal defensive formations that adapt fluidly to in-game dynamics.
These attributes have not only solidified Perth’s backline resilience but also boosted the confidence of the midfield and forward lines, knowing their defense can withstand the opponents’ best efforts. As the finals approach, Schlensog’s impact is more than just measurable; it’s a psychological anchor that could very well determine the Demons’ ability to sustain their push through the season’s toughest fixtures.
Leveraging former AFL talent to secure Perth Demons 2025 WAFL success
As the 2025 WAFL season approaches, the Perth Demons have strategically bolstered their roster by integrating former AFL standouts Brandon Barfitt, Charlie Constable, and Blake Schlensog from Geelong Cats. This trio brings a depth of experience and elite football intelligence that is proving indispensable to the Demons’ ambitions. Their familiarity with high-pressure matches and professional training regimens translates directly into heightened on-field performance and leadership. Barfitt’s midfield tenacity and Constable’s precise ball distribution are particularly instrumental in driving the Demons’ transition play, while Schlensog’s versatility adds valuable depth to defensive and forward structures.
Beyond individual talents, the presence of these ex-AFL players fosters a competitive culture and professionalism within the squad, raising standards across the board. Key benefits include:
- Expert game sense honed at the elite level, enhancing tactics and decision-making under pressure.
- Mentorship for emerging talent, accelerating the development of younger Demons players.
- Elevated fitness and training benchmarks, reflecting AFL-grade preparation methods.
Harnessing this collective expertise is central to Perth Demons’ strategy to secure a top-tier WAFL finals berth, positioning them as strong contenders in the coming season.
As the Perth Demons gear up for the 2025 WAFL season, the addition of former Geelong Cats Brandon Barfitt, Charlie Constable, and Blake Schlensog appears poised to be a decisive factor in their push for a finals berth. Their AFL experience and on-field leadership bring a new dimension to the Demons’ lineup, injecting both skill and confidence. While the season remains unpredictable, these key recruits have undoubtedly strengthened Perth’s prospects, making them a side to watch as the WAFL campaign unfolds.