"Doing it for a reason": Dogs boss on trade period plans

Western Bulldogs' Stance on Jamarra Ugle-Hagan and Trade Strategy

Sam Power, the list boss of the Western Bulldogs, has confirmed that no formal trade request has been submitted by Jamarra Ugle-Hagan, the club’s former top draft pick. However, he emphasized that the club remains open to considering any potential move should Ugle-Hagan or his representatives express interest.

Ugle-Hagan recently met with the Gold Coast Suns in an attempt to reinvigorate his career outside of the Western Bulldogs. Despite this, Power stated that there has been no direct communication from Ugle-Hagan’s team regarding a trade. “We haven’t had any dialogue; Jamarra hasn’t requested a trade,” he said.

The club maintains regular contact with Ugle-Hagan, as he is still a Western Bulldogs player. Power highlighted the importance of the club’s care for its players and staff, noting that communication often occurs through various channels, primarily focused on support and well-being.

Power acknowledged the interest in Ugle-Hagan but stressed that any decision would only be made if a formal trade request is received. “If it is to come [a trade request], we can have those conversations. Everyone wants the best for Jamarra. We absolutely would [have him back]. I'm really proud of the club and how the club has dealt with it.”

The Bulldogs were surprised by Ugle-Hagan’s recent return to play, which occurred at the Victorian Aboriginal Community Services Association Carnival in Cranbourne. He played alongside notable figures such as 2023 Norm Smith Medallist Bobby Hill and troubled former North Melbourne player Tarryn Thomas.

Power explained that Ugle-Hagan is under a management plan with both the club and the AFL, which involves a high level of confidentiality. “We were unaware that he was playing. We were made aware, but not by him.”

Focus on the Trade Period

With the Bulldogs failing to qualify for September action this season, the club is positioning itself as a key player in the upcoming trade period. Power reiterated the club’s interest in Port Adelaide superstar Zak Butters, a western suburbs product, as well as Gold Coast Sun Connor Budarick.

However, he refused to comment on why the club did not pursue Demons key defender Steven May. “I'm not going to comment [on May] – that's unfair, as he's a contracted player. We assess all options. There's been a lot of talk externally about us potentially needing a key back. We'll consider all options, but in doing that we'll be considered and really targeted to explore players that we think are really gonna make us a better team, short, medium and long term.”

Power also highlighted the club’s flexibility in managing their list spots, allowing them to explore different paths if they align with their goals. “We're not going to do something just for the sake of doing it, that's not how we operate. We're pretty targeted, we don't cast a net ridiculously wide.”

Pursuing Other Talent

Despite falling short in their attempt to lure All Australian defender Cal Wilkie away from Moorabbin, Power confirmed the club’s engagement with the St Kilda stalwart. “It's hard to know how close [we came to landing him]. We respect Cal's decision to stay there - he's an unbelievable player,” he said.

“We did explore it, but in the end only he could probably answer that.”

The Western Bulldogs remain focused on strengthening their squad through strategic moves, ensuring that any decisions made are in the best interest of the club and its players. Power’s approach reflects a balanced mix of openness and caution, aiming to build a competitive team while maintaining strong relationships with current and potential future players.