After being overlooked for a list spot at Fremantle, Victorian ruckman Zac Harding has decided to remain in Western Australia for 2026, signing with WAFL outfit Perth.
Harding was one of two train-on prospects at the Dockers during the club's pre-season program, with the Cockburn-based club having one list spot free for the year ahead.
Competing with Richmond VFL-listed forward Christian Scerri for the vacancy, Harding's time with the Dockers came to a close earlier this month following a Supplemental Selection Period trial stint that commenced in November.
Fremantle's interest followed an over-aged draft campaign for Harding, who represented Vic Country at the U18s National Championships and featured in 11 games for the Murray Bushrangers.
Harding averaged 14.5 disposals, 24.0 hitouts and 4.5 clearances per game for Vic Country. He would also represent the Young Guns, Wodonga and Carlton's VFL team throughout last year.
The 20-year-old is now set to ply his trade in the WAFL with the Demons, who confirmed the addition of Harding on Monday.
"The Perth Football Club is excited to announce the signing of Zac Harding for the 2026 season," a club post read.
"The 200cm Ruck/Key position player recently finished up training at the Fremantle Dockers for an SSP spot. Hailing from the Wodonga Bulldogs, the exciting prospect played for Vic Country last year - averaging 15 disposals, 4 tackles and 5 clearances, before making his VFL debut for Carlton against the Gold Coast Suns in Round 20."
The move for Harding adds to a signing run that has seen Perth secure ex-Swan Indhi Kirk, former Collingwood defender Charlie Dean, WA U18s talent Luke Hallett, North Albury's Archer Gardiner, Sandringham's Freddy Brayshaw and ex-Blue Jesse Class-McCasker.
The Demons will open their 2026 season against West Coast at Mineral Resources Park on Friday, April 3.
