Sam Butler

Recruited from Central District with pick 20 in the 2003 National Draft, Sam Butler established himself early as a composed utility player capable of operating across half-back or through the midfield. His career began with immediate success, playing a key role in the West Coast Eagles' 2006 premiership side as a 20-year-old. However, his trajectory was heavily impacted by recurring soft tissue injuries, particularly severe groin issues, which restricted him to just a handful of appearances between 2007 and 2009 and frequently threatened to prematurely end his time at the elite level.

Despite these persistent setbacks, Butler proved to be a resilient figure, solidifying his spot as a reliable, cool-headed defender who offered efficient distribution from the back half. As his contemporaries departed, he became the last remaining member of the 2006 premiership team still on the Eagles' list, providing a vital cultural link between that golden era and the next generation. Highly respected for his club-first attitude and leadership, he eventually retired in 2017 after 14 seasons, having maximised his longevity despite his battling body.