Eagles sign former Docker Hugh Dixon

Former Docker Hugh Dixon is officially an Eagle, with West Coast handing the forward a rookie contract to help fill the void left by unvaccinated star Jack Darling.

Dixon was delisted by Fremantle at the end of 2020 with just one AFL game to his name, but has impressed during his train-on stint at West Coast this summer.

The 23-year-old booted two goals in West Coast's 97-point pre-season loss to Fremantle last week, with his strong marking and tackling a key feature.

Stream Seven's coverage of AFLW for free on 7plus >>

West Coast coach Adam Simpson rated Dixon as the team's best player that day, his strong showing now rewarded with a rookie deal.

Dixon is set to play an important role in the side due to Darling's unavailability and a foot injury to Oscar Allen.

Darling has been banished from the club since January 21 after failing to meet the AFL's vaccine deadline.

If Darling continues to refuse to be vaccinated he could be placed on West Coast's inactive list or delisted.

Dixon arrives on the list in place of All-Australian defender Brad Sheppard, who was forced into early retirement due to concussion.

Fremantle took Dixon with pick No.44 in the 2017 national draft, but his one and only game came in round 23, 2019 when he booted one goal from eight disposals in a loss to Port Adelaide.

The 197cm forward can also play in the ruck, and West Coast value his versatility.

"We have been impressed with Hugh's approach to winning a place on our list and he could not have done any more to convince us that he deserves this chance," national recruiting and list manager Rohan O'Brien said.

"He was among our best in the practice game last Friday night and we think he has a lot to offer.

"He turned 23 just last week, has been in