Koopsy don't be a Eagle

by LES EVERETT

DOCKER Steven Koops ended a frustrating 2003 season with a brilliant display for West Perth in the WAFL grand final.

And now he's being touted as trade bait with Collingwood, North Melbourne and West Coast suggested as possible new homes.

Koops came to Fremantle in 1996 as a zone selection from WAFL club West Perth but had caught the eye of all talent scouts at the 1995 Commonwealth Bank Cup 18s championships. He played in division two (as did WA) for the Northern Territory.

A range of injuries, some caused by his unusual running style, have limited Koops to just 78 games in eight seasons and he played 13 this year after hurting a shoulder in the pre-season Aboriginal All Stars game.

This year's injury was particularly untimely as Koops had played 21 games in 2002 mainly in defence.

When he played during 2003 Koops often found himself starting on the bench. However he did display a real ability to have an impact including his part in the last moment game winning move against Brisbane in round 14.

Koops brought speed, toughness and versatility to the Fremantle line up and his WAFL finals form suggests he could keep it up for a few seasons yet. He, as much as any Docker, deserves to be part of the possible good times ahead.

Whatever happens it's important he doesn't become an Eagle, it would break the heart of his uncle, West Perth legend Bill Dempsey.

I suggest it's time for Fremantle and the Koops' people get back together again.

Steven Koops was a star for West Perth in the WA grand final. Photo by Les Everett

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