Joining Fremantle’s committed list, young defender Hugh Davies has signed a two-year contract extension that will see him remain at the Club until at least the end of the 2026 season.

Standing 196cm, 19-year-old Davies was Fremantle’s first pick at no.33 in the 2022 NAB AFL Draft and made impressive strides in the WAFL during 2023, to set himself up for a strong 2024.

Davies said it was great to be locked into the Club for at least the next three seasons and feels at home as he heads into his second year.

“(I am) super stoked to be signing on until 2026, so an extra two years on my contract,” Davies said.

“It’s amazing being able to come back this pre-season and know everyone, and have good relationships already formed so I can just focus on my footy instead of having that element to it.

“We’ve got a super talented and committed group, and a lot of boys who are super keen to keep cracking on this summer.”

Davies touched on his 2023 season in the WAFL, with a strong finish to his season helping Peel Thunder make it to the Grand Final.

“We had a pretty strong season, made the Grand Final and (it was) disappointing not to finish off, but it was good to place in WAFL finals and connect with all the lads down there,” Davies said.

The young defender said he is enjoying developing his craft under Alex Pearce, Brennan Cox and Luke Ryan.

“They’re so good to us younger boys, they’re really open and not only do they strive to develop their own game, but they strive to develop us younger boys as well and teach us as much as possible,” Davies said.

Fremantle Head of Player Personnel David Walls said while Davies is yet to play an AFL game, his strong performance for Peel Thunder in 2023 has him edging closer to breaking into the back six.

“He (Davies) is knocking on the door and had great experience playing for Peel throughout finals and into the Grand Final,” Walls said.

“Everyone’s been super impressed with his attitude to work and get better.

“The back half of his year was outstanding with how much he improved.

“We’ve got Alex (Pearce) and 'Coxy' (Brennan Cox) and Hugh is developing along nicely behind them.

“We expect him to take another step forward and be pushing for selection.”

Davies’ new deal follows fellow defender Brandon Walker’s contract extension last week. 

“It’s awesome having a real core group committed to the Club until 2026 and beyond,” Walls said.