Jones’ Good Feeling

Scott Jones is one of a number of key signings to join East Perth for the 2020 season but he is by no means a stranger to the club.

It’s a homecoming of sorts for the 24-year-old who spent two years on Fremantle’s list after being drafted at pick 75 from the Royals in the 2017 AFL National Draft.

“Obviously, being back in the black and blue is a good feeling,” Jones said.

“I still know a fair few of the guys running around. A little bit has changed since I’ve been back, but so far this pre-season it’s been really exciting.

“I’m looking forward to the season already.”

The 205cm ruckman, who returned to the Royals in October, joins former AFL listed duo Nick Robertson (Brisbane) and Angus Schumacher (Carlton), ex West Perth midfielder Aidan Lynch, former SANFL utility Jake Veide and the Sandringham Dragons’ Corey Watts for the 2020 season.

“We’ve recruited very well – we’ve got some experience with guys who have played at the top level and also a couple of other big bodies to go through the midfield,” Jones said.

“It’s definitely a much more mature list, which was something that was needed with quite a young team last year. 

“I’m really excited about the list and the opportunities that we have and where we can potentially go. Hopefully we can gel together really well and go from there.”

Jones, a Busselton product, played 15 league games for East Perth in 2017, before joining Fremantle as a mature aged recruit.

He went on to play six games in a two year stint at the Dockers.

“It was a dream come true to be able to play in the AFL and to get the chance to play at the top level,” he said.

“I definitely learnt a lot – both about my body and about football - being exposed to the guys at the top level, training with Nat Fyfe and guys like that.”

“That being said, there are no real regrets for the two years. At the top level, you’re in and out sometimes and that’s how it goes really.”

The East Perth playing group spent time in the South West last weekend for a pre-season camp, as the club ramps up preparations for the 2020 season.

“Busselton is my home town, so it was nice to go back home for the weekend,” Jones said.

“It was a short and sharp camp, we had a session on Saturday morning at Bovell Park and had a bonding afternoon with the group.

“It was about learning more about the coaches and more about each other as well.”

East Perth will open its season against Peel Thunder at Leederville Oval on Saturday, April 4.