Fremantle extend rookie Karl Worner’s contract until 2023 after wingman impresses at Peel Thunder

Fremantle have locked away another piece of their Victorian puzzle, re-signing rookie Karl Worner until the end of 2023.

The athletic wingman was selected by the Dockers in the 2021 rookie draft and arrived at the club in late February after WA’s border restrictions prevented an immediate start.

But the 19-year-old impressed his new club from afar, training with Richmond’s VFL side and winning Fremantle’s pre-season time trials despite not getting the opportunity to compete in person.

Worner made his WAFL debut for Peel in round one and has averaged 23.8 disposals in the five games he’s played, prompting Fremantle to reward him with a one-year contract extension.

After Victoria’s lockdowns cruelled his final two seasons in the NAB League, Worner said he was relishing the chance to play consistent football.

“I’m absolutely stoked to sign on, receive this opportunity and to keep it going on. I’ve really loved it so far,” Worner said.

“The most important thing for me is to get continuity in my football and show my competitiveness. I feel like I’ve started off pretty well but have a lot of things to improve on.

“I’m really happy with the way I’ve started and to lock another year in.”

Worner’s extension follows fellow Victorian Hayden Young, the defender announcing a fresh four-year deal late last week.

Fremantle head of player personnel David Walls said the Oakleigh Chargers product had the potential to develop into an AFL player.

“We’re excited by what Karl can develop into and it was important to give him that extra year’s security so he can focus on his footy,” Walls said.

“His attitude’s been strong from before he was drafted, especially during COVID In that time he grew into an elite runner, even by Fremantle standards.

“He’s put the work in and there’s other areas, like getting bigger and stronger, for him to work on. We think he’s got real scope to develop into an AFL player and we want to reward his attitude and the work he’s put in.”

FREO’S VIC DOCKERS - and when their deals run out

• Sam Sturt - 2022
• David Mundy - 2022
• Karl Worner - 2023
• Caleb Serong – 2023
• Will Brodie - 2023
• Josh Treacy – 2023
• Darcy Tucker - 2023
• Sam Switkowski – 2023
• Lachie Schultz – 2023
• Lloyd Meek – 2023
• Luke Ryan - 2023
• Sean Darcy – 2024
• Matt Taberner - 2024
• Andrew Brayshaw – 2025
• Hayden Young - 2027