Demons Welcome Laine Wilkins

Perth has continued its strong recruitment push for this season with the signing of Laine Wilkins from Peel Thunder.

The 21-year old Halls Head product arrives at Lathlain Park having played 29 league games for the Thunder in the past three seasons, as well as experience with the WA under 18’s squad in 2011 and 2012.

The recruitment of Wilkins comes along with the signings of Clint Jones and Spencer White from St. Kilda and former Richmond and Adelaide ruckman Angus Graham.

Wilkins says the club’s vision for the future was a major factor in his decision to join the Demons.

“The way they’ve (Perth) recruited over the last few months, and then the players who were already here, means things will be pretty special by the looks of things.” Wilkins said.

Wilkins says his transition to a new club has been made easier thanks to the support from current players and coaches. Wilkins also says working with a different coaching group has been beneficial in the development of his game over the pre-season.

“They’re (the coaching group) different personalities, so that’s good in that they compliment each other,” he said.

“They’ve got a lot of experience, all got the quality, and they all work well together.”

Wilkins comes to the club with a strong prior relationship with league assistant coach Michael Pratt. Pratt has previously coached Wilkins in state under-18 programs as well as development squads through Peel Thunder.

Pratt says the versatility and athleticism of Wilkins will make him a handy acquisition for the upcoming season.

“Your talking about a 190cm plus player, and he’s set all sorts of records back when he was an 18 year old at state testing.

“He’s matured a lot as a footballer and I’ve been really impressed with the way he’s conducted himself this pre-season.

“Laine can win his own ball and hopefully we can use him on the outside and in other areas on the ground.”